-Amid Environmental Violations
By Vaye Abel Lepolu
MONROVIA – Thousands of residents in Grand Cape Mount County are facing serious environmental and health threats following the pollution of Marvoe Creek, allegedly caused by operations of Bea Mountain Mining Corporation (BMMC). In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has ruled in favor of affected citizens, citing extensive violations of environmental regulations.
Following a detailed compliance audit of BMMC’s New Liberty Gold Mine—which examined mining activities, tailings storage systems, and underground operations—the EPA uncovered multiple deficiencies. These included unauthorized infrastructure development, weak environmental monitoring and reporting systems, poor hazardous materials management, and inadequate emergency preparedness. The agency also raised alarm over the absence of structured incident reporting systems, warning that such gaps heighten risks to water sources, ecosystems, and nearby communities.
As a result, the EPA has issued binding corrective actions requiring BMMC to submit engineering documentation, install proper monitoring systems, conduct dam safety checks, improve hazardous waste management, and obtain permits for unapproved underground operations. These measures are time-bound and subject to strict EPA verification.
Speaking at a regular information briefing, EPA Executive Director Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo emphasized that compliance audits are essential regulatory tools. “We use them to identify risks and prevent environmental harm,” he said, warning that the agency would escalate enforcement against non-compliant companies.
In a separate investigation, the EPA found that BMMC had engaged in illegal sand mining in the Lofa River, using heavy machinery for large-scale extraction that blocked nearly half the river channel and significantly altered its natural course. The activity caused severe environmental damage, including erosion, riverbank instability, and destruction of aquatic ecosystems. The EPA fined the company US$50,000, imposed an additional US$20,000 for restoration and monitoring, and mandated full rehabilitation of the affected river.
In Bong County, the EPA took action against China Union Liberia Mining Company after a compliance audit revealed untreated wastewater discharge, contamination of water sources, and the use of unengineered containment systems. The company was fined US$30,000 and ordered to pay US$20,000 in restoration fees. It must also install proper wastewater treatment facilities and supply safe drinking water to affected communities.
Meanwhile, Nugget Era Mining Company, operating in Gbarpolu County, was cited for illegal mining without a permit and poor environmental practices. The EPA imposed a US$3,000 fine and directed the company to submit environmental impact and rehabilitation plans before any future operations.
The EPA also provided an update on a pollution incident involving ArcelorMittal Liberia at Mt. Yuelliton, which affected downstream communities, including Bonla Town. The incident followed heavy rainfall that caused mining waste to spill into nearby rivers and farmland.
Laboratory results confirmed that water and soil samples contained high levels of iron and hazardous metals such as lead, chromium, and selenium—exceeding national standards. The company was fined US$125,000, plus an additional US$60,000 for environmental assessment. Authorities confirmed that compensation has been paid to affected farmers, while restoration efforts continue.
Looking ahead, the EPA announced plans to launch a nationwide environmental compliance monitoring exercise in mid-May 2026 across all counties. The initiative will focus on high-risk sectors, including mining and agriculture, to ensure adherence to environmental regulations.
The EPA reiterated that no company has the authority to pollute natural water systems or endanger communities, warning that strict enforcement actions—including fines, shutdowns, and permit suspensions—will be applied to violators. Additionally, the agency introduced new regulations governing the safe use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and measures to control noise pollution, as part of its broader effort to safeguard public health and environmental quality across Liberia.
