Independent Investigation Exposes Human Impact of MNG Gold Chemical Spill in Bong County
GBARNGA, Bong County, Liberia — The United Bong County Association in the Americas (UBCAA) has officially released the findings of an independent multidisciplinary investigation into the hydrochloric acid spill involving mnggold in Money Sweet Town, Jorquelleh District #2, Bong County.
The chemical spill, which occurred on January 18, 2026, has now been described by investigators as a serious public health and community welfare concern with both immediate and long-term effects on residents and the surrounding environment.
According to the report, which followed months of field investigations, consultations with affected families, engagement with relevant institutions, and scientific review, the spill caused significant human, environmental, and livelihood impacts in Money Sweet Town and nearby communities.
The investigation found that many residents were exposed to chemical fumes and direct contact with the spilled substance.
The report also documented several challenges following the incident, including the lack of personal protective equipment during the emergency response, delayed public warnings to residents, increased health complaints, rising medical visits, disruption of farming activities, emotional stress among families, and growing environmental concerns.
Investigators said the incident should not be viewed as an ordinary industrial accident, noting that the spill directly affected the health, welfare, and livelihoods of residents in the area.
The report also raised concerns over access to information and cooperation during the investigation. According to the investigative team, several challenges encountered while collecting field information made the process difficult and reinforced the need for stronger transparency and cooperation in matters affecting public health and community safety.
At the community level, residents also raised concerns over actions they believe could weaken unity among families affected by the incident. UBCAA reaffirmed the right of residents of Money Sweet Town to remain united, freely express their concerns, and peacefully pursue accountability and justice.
UBCAA Executive Leadership and Board of Directors praised the independent investigative team led by Mr. Moses Baliey for what the Association described as professionalism, commitment, and technical expertise throughout the investigation. The Association said the team produced a credible and evidence-based report documenting the environmental, health, and social consequences of the spill.
The Association also commended the people of Money Sweet Town for their patience, peaceful conduct, and resilience throughout the difficult period, recognizing the dignity with which residents have continued demanding accountability and support.
UBCAA acknowledged Bong County local authorities for their early intervention following the incident and also recognized the presence of a representative of Bong County Superintendent Hon. Hawa Loleyah Norris during the formal presentation of the report on Friday, May 29, 2026.
At the same time, the Association expressed concern over the absence of members of the Bong County Legislative Caucus during the official presentation. UBCAA said lawmakers were officially invited and follow-up communication was made, but no representative attended.
The Association noted that continued engagement from elected leaders remains important as affected residents seek support, accountability, and practical solutions.
UBCAA emphasized that the Money Sweet Town chemical spill remains a serious issue affecting families and communities in Bong County and should not be treated as a routine environmental incident.
In response to the findings, the Association announced plans to begin a broad stakeholder engagement process involving residents of Money Sweet Town, Bong County authorities, members of the Bong County Legislative Caucus, the Environmental Protection Agency of Liberia, MNG Gold management, and other key institutions.
The engagement process will focus on addressing immediate and long-term health concerns, ensuring welfare support and fair compensation for affected families, reviewing environmental monitoring and remediation efforts, strengthening accountability and emergency preparedness, and developing practical measures aimed at preventing similar incidents in Bong County and across Liberia.
UBCAA says it remains committed to ensuring that the findings of the independent investigation lead to meaningful action and measurable support for the people of Money Sweet Town.
