—- Calls for System strengthening
IPNEWS: The Environmental Eyes Consultancy and Advocacy Firm Inc, says it acknowledged the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia recent press release concerning the hazardous and toxic chemical spill associated with MNG Gold’s mining operations in Bong County.
The EECAF statement notes that while the EPA’s acknowledgment of the incident is a necessary first step, acknowledgment alone is insufficient in the face of an environmental and public health emergency.
The statement further notes ‘that the mode of transportation of the Hydrochloric acid is not the appropriate instrument that is being used globally and in line with international best practices, That the transportation company Everette, an EPA certified hazardous goods transportation
company FAILDED to conduct due diligence on the mode of transportation, and from its observation of the video recording and photages from the spilled chemical site for
over five hours, there was no presence of EPA’s chemical handlers on site as evidence by the
video recording.
Additionally, the EECAF, states that the spilled area was promptly diked using nearby dirt and dried sand prevented the chemical from spreading is erroneous and far fetched; on grounds that the spread of Hydrocloric acid is like the speed of lighting, that a thorough inspection of the surrounding environment confirmed that the spillage was fully contained is also far fetched and erroneous; because from the video recording or video photage the chemical affected the entire Ecosystem leading to the dangerous inhalation of air pollution which was never recovered or prevented when the incident occurred, and considering the toxic nature of such hazardous chemical; no amount of release assistance- (Food and drinking water) as emphasized by the EPA and donated from politically exposed individuals (James Kolleh and Prince Moye) that will be able to prevent future environmental hazard and damaging public health crisis that will arised.
The Environmental Eyes furthermore, emphasized that a swift, transparent, and independent action is required. The EPA must ensure that the investigation and environmental assessment process is not limited to internal or government-led mechanisms, but formally includes independent civil society institutions, environmental experts, and affected communities to guarantee credibility and public trust of the EPA’s press releases and findings.
“Given the history of environmental harm and unresolved community complaints previously linked to MNG Gold’s mining activities, this incident raises serious concerns about regulatory enforcement failures and the absence of effective deterrence.
Recurrent environmental violations indicate systemic gaps in monitoring, compliance, and accountability.The Environmental Eyes therefore calls on the EPA of Liberia to:
1. Ensure a fully independent and inclusive investigation, with civil society participation;
2. Publicly disclose all findings, data, and remediation plans;
3. Require immediate containment, cleanup, and ecosystem restoration at the expense of
MNG Gold;
4. Enforce meaningful sanctions where violations are confirmed to prevent future recurrence;
5. Establish long-term environmental monitoring in Bong County.
The people of Bong County deserve environmental justice, not reassurances without action.
Environmental Eyes stands ready to support transparent, science-based, and people-centered
accountability measures that protect Liberia’s environment and public health.” A statement from EECAF read.
It may be recalled, a tanker truck transporting hydrochloric acid to MNG Gold Liberia Inc. caught fire in Money Sweet Town, Bong County, spilling hazardous chemicals into the surrounding environment and triggering widespread concern among local residents.
The incident, which occurred along a key route used by mining supply vehicles, resulted in the release of hydrochloric acid into nearby soil and waterways. Residents say the spill threatens their primary source of drinking water and poses serious short- and long-term health risks, including respiratory problems, skin irritation, and potential contamination of food sources.
In response, community members have mounted roadblocks in the affected area, demanding immediate government intervention and a full environmental and public health assessment. Protesters say they are alarmed by the lack of clear information about the extent of the contamination and fear that air and water pollution could worsen if swift action is not taken.
The spill has also intensified concerns over food and water scarcity, as residents report avoiding local water sources and agricultural produce due to fears of chemical exposure. Community leaders are calling for urgent testing of water, soil, and air quality to determine the scale of environmental damage.
While MNG Gold Liberia Inc. has reportedly provided some assistance to the affected community, residents insist the response has been inadequate and largely short-term. They are urging the company to take full responsibility for cleanup efforts and to support long-term mitigation measures.
Environmental advocates and local citizens have also called on government regulators, including the Environmental Protection Agency, and health authorities to launch immediate investigations and enforce environmental safety standards.
As tensions remain high, residents warn that without decisive action, the incident could result in lasting ecological damage and serious public health consequences. The situation has renewed broader concerns about the transport of hazardous materials through rural communities and the need for stronger environmental oversight in Liberia’s extractive sector.
