Scamming in Minister Paye’s Name

MONROVIA – The Public Relations Unit of the Ministry of Mines and Energy has confirmed that Abraham Gbogar, a 40-year old man, has impersonated to be the Minister of Mines and Energy of the Republic of Liberia, attempting to defraud an individual of US$5,000 in the name of granting the individual a Class ‘B’ mining license.

The suspect, Abraham Gbogar, was arrested on Monday evening, May 12, 2025, at Duport Road junction by state security officers.

Impersonator Abraham Gbogar told state security investigating him that he is an employee of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and apologized for his criminal act of impersonating by claiming to be Wilmot Paye; the Minister of Mines and Energy.

Affording to the victim of this scam, Peter Logan, who is a Class ‘C’ Miner from Rivercess County, suspect Abraham Gbogar was aiming to defraud him of US$5,000 to ensure he gets a Class ‘B’ mining License.

But, the victim [Logan] said, being fully aware of Mr. Wilmot Paye’s firm stance on moral rectitude and integrity in public service, he became skeptical of releasing the requested amount of money to Gbogar’s emissary, and only gave the person USD$50.00 as transportation fare.

The Ministry of Mines and Energy has so far distanced itself and its Minister from any and all acts of soliciting money from anyone for any license process.

According to the ministry, application procedures and acquisition of all categories of mining licenses are clearly indicated in the Minerals and Mining Law, and the accompanying Regulations.