FLASHBACK of the scene during the protest
By Our Reporter
Reports from the western Grand Cape Mount County say calm has returned to Kinjor, after a violent protest at the Bea Mountain gold mining company, as the Liberia National Police deny the discharge of live bullets during the protest.
Disenchanted workers of the company last weekend began protesting against what they say are poor pay and working conditions, as well as the departure of foreigners who are doing jobs that many qualified Liberians are available to do.
“At no time was live bullet discharged, as reported by some media institutions. Due to the failure of protesters to disperse after series of constructive efforts to have them remove blockades from entrances of the mining facility, the LNP was left with no alternative, but to use tear gas as a conventional means of dispersing any group that refuses to adhere to lawful instructions,” Police Spokesman Moses Carter said.
Grand Cape Mount County Senator, Simeon Taylor earlier told the media he was sure whether live bullet was fired.
“I cannot say … that the police did not shoot live bullets. However, I heard a sound of a gun but whether it was a teargas sound or bullet, I can’t tell.”
According to the Police Spokesman, absolutely, no major injuries were sustained as the result of dispersing the violent protesters, but expressed sadness over the behavior of some of the protesters.
He dismissed earlier report that one person died during the protest.
“Sadly, the vehicle of the Inspector General of Police was attacked with stones which the side windshield broken and a vehicle of the Bea Mountain Company set ablaze by the protesters,” Police Spokesman Carter said.
According to the Police Spokesman, negotiations were going on by traditional Leaders, headed by Chief Zanzan Kawoh and Heads of the Liberia National Police to ensure a peaceful resolution of the issues.