Liberia Contracts Head Shot Dead

Keith Jubah

Gunmen have killed Liberia's official in charge of awarding contracts to exploit the nation's natural resources.

Keith Jubah was shot repeatedly on Sunday night as he approached his house in the Morris Farm Community, 60km (37 miles) from the capital, Monrovia.

Police have not yet said whether they believe the killing was related to Mr Jubah's position as head of the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission.

Rubber and diamonds are among the resources Liberia has in abundance.

Three years ago, President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf cancelled some major concessions including those awarded to foreign companies, saying they were unfavourable to Liberia.

The BBC's Jonathan Paye Layleh in Monrovia says Mr Jubah's position at the head of the commission had made him a high-profile figure.