Modou Jonga and Sheriffo Sonko testified before the Local Government Commission on Monday about D30 million from geology funds. The former Brikama Area Council officials explained transactions spanning May 2020 to March 2023. Jonga documented seven major payments totaling D30.7 million through First International Bank and Eco Bank accounts. A June 2023 payment remained unconfirmed due to missing bank statements. The funds originated from sand mining royalties collected in the West Coast Region quarry operations.
Communities affected by mining activities received D11 million directly during the 2021 and 2023 distributions. Area councils acknowledged receiving their 20 percent share of sand mining royalties through official letters. Sonko admitted failing to verify withdrawals despite his supervisory duties as chairman. The National Disaster Management Agency received D500,000 for July windstorm victims from these geology funds. Commission members continue examining vouchers and receipts to ensure proper accountability and regulatory compliance.
Communities affected by mining activities received D11 million directly during the 2021 and 2023 distributions. Area councils acknowledged receiving their 20 percent share of sand mining royalties through official letters. Sonko admitted failing to verify withdrawals despite his supervisory duties as chairman. The National Disaster Management Agency received D500,000 for July windstorm victims from these geology funds. Commission members continue examining vouchers and receipts to ensure proper accountability and regulatory compliance.
