Monrovia, Liberia – Montserrado County District #17 Representative Bernard “DJ Blue” Benson has formally called for the shutdown of LICHI Incorporated, a Chinese-owned sand mining company operating in the Township of Virginia, over what he describes as “regrettable and appalling” environmental violations.
In a communication addressed to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey, Rep. Benson alleged that LICHI’s operations have caused extensive environmental damage in Virginia and surrounding communities.
He cited land degradation, erosion, dust pollution, and the destruction of the Virginia–Clay Ashland Road—a major transport route in the district—as key concerns.
According to Benson, repeated efforts by his office to engage the company on these issues have yielded no results. “All engagements to ensure that the company addresses these environmental-related issues have proven futile, whilst the company defiantly continues operations without remorse,” the lawmaker stated.
He urged the EPA to take decisive action in line with its statutory mandate. “I do hereby request that your entity shut down LICHI’s operations within the Township of Virginia until these concerns are addressed unconditionally,” Benson wrote.
Residents of Virginia have long complained about the environmental impact of sand mining in the area, with fears mounting over the potential loss of land and livelihoods if the activity continues unchecked.
The EPA has not yet issued a public response to the lawmaker’s request.
LICHI Incorporated could not be immediately reached for comment.
