By: Contributing Writer
Monrovia, Liberia – The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has imposed a fine of US$10,000 on the Hongtu Mining Company in Grand Bassa County for operating without the required environmental permits and a further US$30,000 for environmental restoration efforts following a thorough investigation by the EPA.
The EPA Executive Director, Emmanuel Urey Yakpawolo told a news conference on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, that this decision following a preliminary investigation into severe environmental violations committed by Hongtu Mining Company in Grand Bassa County.
The investigation into the Hongtu Mining Company’s operations was initiated after Liberia Excellent News Network (LENN) and a civil society group on March 28 reported a groundbreaking news story uncovered pollution and the use of cyanide and mercury which are life threatening chemicals.
According to the EPA’s findings, the company has been operating without the necessary EPA permits, including the crucial operational permit for its mining activities.
The mining site, located in Mat House Town, has been marked by widespread environmental damage, such as river diversion, water pollution, and the failure to rehabilitate open pits.
The most concerning impacts, however, are related to the pollution of the Shoni River, vital to the local ecosystem and the surrounding communities’ access to clean water.
Dr. Urey Yakpawolo asserted that local communities have raised concerns about contaminated water sources and the adverse effects on their livelihoods.
The EPA Boss noted that while Hongtu Mining Company has made some efforts, such as the construction of hand pumps and a school, its mining activities have caused more considerable ecosystem disruption and water contamination.
In addition to the fine, the company is required to hire an accredited environmental firm to create a restoration plan.
This plan, upon approval by the EPA, will focus on restoring the area to its pre-mining state.
“We are committed to enforcing environmental standards and supporting responsible industrial practices,” EPA Boss declared.
