Sierra Leone's Mines Ministry Refutes Claims of Lithium Shipments by Elektros

Claim: Elektros Makes First Lithium Shipments From Sierra Leone

Verdict: FALSE

Context: Recent media reports alleged that Elektros, a company trading under the ticker OTC PINK: ELEK, made its first lithium shipment from Sierra Leone. This claim sparked widespread discussion, with various news outlets reporting it as a major development in the country's mining sector. Lithium, a critical resource for electric vehicles and renewable energy, has drawn significant attention globally, making this announcement seem plausible.

Evidence: Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources (MMMR) and the National Minerals Agency (NMA) have categorically denied these claims. In an official press release dated September 24th, 2024, the ministry stated that no company named Elektros is operating in Sierra Leone. Further, Elektros has neither applied for nor received any mining license from the NMA.

Sierra Check contacted the NMA to verify the press release. An official confirmed that the press statement was legitimate and reiterated that no mining company, including Elektros, has exported lithium from the country. While some companies are exploring lithium deposits, no production or shipment has taken place.

Conclusion: The claim that Elektros has made its first lithium shipments from Sierra Leone is false. There is no evidence of any such activity and both the Ministry of Mines and the National Minerals Agency have denied the existence of any lithium exports.