MONROVIA – The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has imposed fines totaling $965,000 on several companies for violating environmental laws. Dr. Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo, the EPA’s Executive Director, made this announcement during a press briefing at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT) on June 27, 2024.
The companies penalized include J.M Mining Company Inc., Randall and Oretha Doe Multi-purpose Company, Resource Liberia Limited, and China Union Investment, all of which are located in Gbarpolu and Bong counties. Additionally, Jimmy E. Qualah Private Facility and Monrovia Food Construction Company in Monrovia were also fined.
J.M Mining Company Inc. has been operating a Class B gold mine in Gbarpolu County since March 2024 without an environmental permit. This operation has caused significant sediment deposits in the Maher River, hindering local access to water. The company faces a $95,000 fine for violating sections 61, 57, 58, 105, and 6 of the EPA laws, including water pollution regulations. Randall and Oretha Doe Multi-purpose Company has been fined $140,000 for similar violations in Gbarpolu County. Resource Liberia Limited is required to pay $135,000 to the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) for its infractions.
China Union Investment Company has been operating without an environmental permit and effluent discharge license in Bong Mines, Bong County. They have also commenced construction of a new processing plant without EPA approval. The EPA had previously fined them for constructing a medium tailings processing plant without a permit. Jimmy E. Qualah Private Facility in Monrovia was fined $50,000 for backfilling a wetland and constructing a fence without EPA approval, which could cause flooding in the area. Monrovia Food Construction Company received a $25,000 fine for building a facility in a flood plain.
In March 2024, the EPA fined three other companies a total of $70,998 for similar violations. The companies included East International ($55,000), Quetz Mining Corporation ($2,998), and Quetz Company ($12,999 for a Restoration Order).
Dr. Yarkpawolo emphasized that these fines are intended to serve as a deterrent to other companies, reinforcing the importance of adhering to environmental laws.