EPA Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Mining in Lofa County
By Journalist Daniel D. Sheriff
Lofa County — The Environmental Protection Agency of Liberia (EPA) has intensified its nationwide environmental enforcement campaign aimed at combating illegal mining activities and protecting the country’s water bodies from environmental degradation.
During a recent monitoring exercise in Massawo, Lofa County, EPA inspectors confiscated five water pump machines allegedly being used in ongoing illegal mining operations along the Via River.
According to the EPA, the seized equipment was linked to artisanal mining and dredging activities that continue to place increasing pressure on the river and surrounding ecosystem through unregulated mineral extraction.
The inspection team also discovered four dredging machines actively operating on the river during the operation. Authorities said both Liberian and Ghanaian miners were allegedly involved in the coordinated mining activities.
Field reports further indicated that upon the arrival of EPA inspectors, some Liberian miners reportedly instructed the Ghanaian nationals to flee the area in what appeared to be an attempt to avoid enforcement action.
The latest operation forms part of the EPA’s broader national efforts to enforce environmental laws, prevent water pollution, and crack down on illegal mining activities threatening communities and natural resources across Liberia.
The EPA has repeatedly warned that illegal mining along rivers and waterways poses serious environmental and public health risks, including water contamination, ecosystem destruction, and land degradation.
Authorities say investigations and enforcement actions are continuing.
