By: Christian Appleton
Barclayville, Grand Kru County – May 9, 2025 – Grand Kru TV News – The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia, under the leadership of Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo, has delivered a stern warning to unlicensed mining operators in Grand Kru County, particularly those employing dragline excavators. This announcement comes as part of a nationwide initiative to combat illegal and environmentally harmful mining practices.
Dr. Yarkpawolo addressed key stakeholders from the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Public Works, the Liberia Land Authority, and the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) at a meeting in Barclayville. The focus of the gathering was the escalating environmental concerns across southeastern Liberia.
“The Environmental Protection Agency is dedicated to protecting Liberia’s valuable natural resources and ensuring all mining operations adhere to sustainable practices,” Dr. Yarkpawolo asserted. “Any operators found mining without the necessary legal authorization must halt their activities immediately or face severe penalties.”
EPA field investigations in Grand Kru County have revealed widespread breaches of environmental regulations. Scottment Investment Mining was discovered operating excavators in Philadelphia without the required permits. Baby Girl Creek Mining in Forpoh Dwehken was also identified for conducting unlicensed activities that have contributed to significant environmental degradation.
Further investigations exposed GMGC Mining as operating a substantial unauthorized camp, leaving behind evidence of considerable land degradation and water pollution. Similarly, Alex Fannoh Class B Mining in Ma-Mary Village has been found to be operating in violation of EPA standards.
Dr. Yarkpawolo strongly condemned the use of heavy machinery in unregulated mining, highlighting its contribution to rapid deforestation, soil erosion, and the pollution of local water sources. He urged all operators to formalize their operations by acquiring the necessary permits and collaborating closely with the EPA.
He concluded with a clear and resolute message: “Non-compliance will not be accepted. The EPA is prepared to enforce the law to safeguard our environment and the well-being of our citizens.”
The EPA continues to underscore its commitment to environmental stewardship, cautioning that firm enforcement actions will be taken against any individual or company found to be in violation of the law.
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