Liberia-The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has once more flexed its muscles against United Africa Minerals Cooperation (UAMC), a mining company operating in Gbarpolu County, shutting down its Class B gold mining operation.
EPA said the decision is on account of serious environmental violations by the company, as well as recent investigation which revealed that the company has been operating without the necessary environmental permit.
EPA boss, Dr. Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo said EPA’s findings revealed UAMC’s mining activities have caused significant land degradation, massive biodiversity loss, and pollution of local water sources, making it increasingly difficult for residents to access clean water for domestic use.
The agency reported extensive sediment deposition in nearby rivers, posing a serious threat to both the environment and public health.
Dr. Yarkpawolo said investigation examined allegations that UAMC improperly used sodium cyanide, a hazardous chemical reserved for Class A mining operations.
“The use of such a toxic substance in a Class B operation raises further concerns about the company’s compliance with safety and environmental regulations,” the EPA boss noted.
Besides shutting down the company’s operations, EPA also imposed a fine of US$30,000 on UAMC, payable into the Government of Liberia’s revenue account within 72 hours.
EPA described the action as a crucial step in holding mining companies accountable for their environmental responsibilities.
EPA is also expected to dispatch a team of technicians to the mining site for a more detailed assessment regarding the allegations of cyanide use, Dr. Yakpawolo said, adding that the results of the investigation will be made public, as many in the community eager for transparency and accountability.
As the EPA’s actions unfold, residents in Gbarpolu are calling for stronger measures to protect their environment and water resources. The situation highlights the pressing need for stricter enforcement of mining regulations to prevent future environmental degradation and to safeguard the health of local communities.
This crackdown on UAMC could set a significant precedent in Liberia’s ongoing battle to balance resource extraction with environmental protection, as the nation grapples with the consequences of unsustainable mining practices.
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