By Jamesetta D Williams
MONROVIA–The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia has imposed a combined US$500,000 in fines on ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) following preliminary findings of environmental pollution and regulatory violations linked to the company’s mining operations in Nimba County.
The EPA said the enforcement action follows a formal complaint filed on August 11, 2026, by residents of Bolo Town in Gba Clan, Yarmein Administrative District.
Residents reportedly alleged that mining activities around Mount Gangra and Mount Yulleton had polluted community water sources, damaged farmlands, and affected their livelihoods.
In response to the complaint, the EPA dispatched a preliminary investigation team to the affected communities on August 13.
The team inspected watercourses and farmlands and held discussions with ArcelorMittal’s environmental management team, traditional leaders, women, youths, elders, community representatives, and persons with disabilities.
According to the EPA, the preliminary investigation found visible evidence that substantially supported concerns raised by residents.
The Agency said its investigators observed iron-rich and sediment-laden discharges from mining areas at Mount Gangra and Mount Yulleton entering nearby water resources through six discharge points.
Mining-related sediment was also observed in the Karn River and several of the 11 creeks identified by community members, including Yeewaa, Wenein, Neneyee, Ponpeles, Wehee, Sayemeyee, and Yeehwaatoluzah.
The investigation also identified damage to vegetation and impacts on farmlands where residents cultivate rubber, cocoa, oranges, rice, and other crops.
The EPA said the findings were concerning because the affected water resources and agricultural lands are closely connected to the health, food security, and economic livelihoods of communities in the area.
Residents also raised concerns over blasting activities at the mining sites, alleging that some blasts were conducted without adequate prior notice and caused repeated disturbances, particularly at night.
Community members further alleged that an elderly resident suffered hearing impairment following a blasting incident.
The EPA said those allegations remain under technical review as the Agency continues its assessment to establish the nature and extent of the reported impacts.
Beyond the reported environmental impacts, the EPA said its review identified several regulatory failures by ArcelorMittal Liberia.
According to the Agency, AML failed to notify the EPA of the reported pollution incidents as required under the company’s environmental permit conditions.
The company also reportedly failed to submit its mandatory second-quarter 2026 Environmental Monitoring Report within the required period.
The EPA said the outstanding issues remained unresolved despite conferences, written communications, and a final compliance deadline of August 25, 2026.
As part of the enforcement measures, the EPA has imposed an administrative fine of US$400,000 on ArcelorMittal Liberia.
The amount is to be paid into the Government of Liberia Consolidated Account through the Liberia Revenue Authority within 10 working days.
AML has also been ordered to pay an additional US$100,000 to the EPA within the same period.
The Agency said the additional payment will support further environmental monitoring, sampling, technical research, and assessment to establish the full extent and trend of the reported pollution and inform restoration measures.
In addition to the financial penalties, the EPA has directed ArcelorMittal Liberia to fully fund a comprehensive environmental assessment to be led by the Agency.
The assessment is expected to determine the geographic extent and severity of the reported pollution, as well as its impact on water resources, farmlands, vegetation, livelihoods, and the broader landscape.
Based on verified findings, the company may also be required to compensate affected individuals and communities for documented crop and livelihood losses in accordance with applicable laws.
The EPA has further ordered AML to provide safe alternative water for immediate community use and support appropriate interim livelihood measures while the assessment and restoration process continue.
The Agency stressed that payment of the fines will not relieve ArcelorMittal Liberia of its continuing obligations under Liberia’s environmental laws, environmental permits, and other applicable regulations.
The EPA said it may issue an Environmental Restoration Order following additional monitoring and assessment, requiring further remedial and restorative actions where necessary.
Meanwhile, the EPA has acknowledged progress made by ArcelorMittal Liberia in addressing earlier environmental concerns identified at the company’s facility in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County.
During a nationwide environmental monitoring and compliance exercise conducted in early May, EPA technical teams identified concerns involving improper waste disposal and poorly structured sedimentation ponds at the facility.
The Agency said it subsequently communicated corrective measures to AML and required the company to bring its operations into compliance with Liberia’s environmental laws and permit conditions.
According to the EPA, ArcelorMittal has since taken corrective action and is complying with the measures relating to its Buchanan facility.
The Agency said while corrective actions will be recognized, environmental violations and failures to meet regulatory obligations will continue to attract appropriate enforcement measures.
The EPA reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to responsible investment but stressed that economic activities must be conducted in full compliance with the country’s environmental laws.
The Agency warned industrial and concession operators across Liberia to protect the environment, comply with their permits, and respect the communities in which they operate.
The EPA said it remains committed to constructive engagement with companies but will continue to take enforcement action where environmental harm is identified and regulatory obligations are not met.
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