By. G. Bennie Bravo Johnson
The Environmental Protection Agency of Liberia (EPA) initiated an investigation on Tuesday, May 24, 2022, into allegations concerning reports of water pollution by BEA Mountain Mining Corporation that is resulting in the death of some aquatic species in the Mafa and Morvor Rivers, which are located in Grand Cape Mount County, as depicted in posts on social media. The EPA launched this investigation in response to allegations concerning reports of alleged water pollution by BEA Mountain Mining Corporation.
According to a statement that was issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Tuesday evening, its Executive Director, Professor Wilson K. Tarpeh, has given the order for an immediate investigation into the alleged incident to a team of investigators from the agency’s regional office in Tubmanburg, along with scientists from the agency’s main office in Monrovia.
It should be recalled that on May 23, 2022, residents of Cape Mount, participating in an activity that is known as citizen journalism, reported allegations of water pollution committed by the mining company BEA Mountain Mining Corporation (BMMC), which was operating in Grand Cape Mount County at the time. The allegations stated that the company had polluted waterways with waste containing toxic chemicals.
A situation that is believed to be putting residents of more than ten communities in Cape Mount at risk, as marine species, dogs, and plants continue to float lifelessly, has prompted some residents to begin relocating in search of safer living areas. The situation is currently being caused by a chemical spill.
In the meantime, the Environmental Protection Agency has issued a press release stating that a team of investigators will be sent to the purported site to determine the severity of the contamination.
As a result, they are appealing to the general public to maintain their composure while the EPA waits for a technical report from the experts.
At the same time, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is advising inhabitants of the allegedly affected communities to abstain from using the water and not to consume any dead aquatic animals, especially fish, until further notice. This warning is in effect until further notice.
Therefore, in order to reassure the public that it is still dedicated to its fundamental ideals of preserving a clean, safe, and healthy environment for everyone, it strongly encourages the public to report any act of pollution that occurs anywhere in the country.
