EPA SHUTS DOWN TWO ILLEGAL MINING OPERATIONS IN LOFA COUNTY
Lofa County, May 19, 2026_Team C of the Nationwide Environmental Monitoring and Compliance Assessment, headed by the Inspector General of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) R. Baiyezinah Brown , has uncovered unauthorized mining activities and serious environmental violations involving Dulley Group of Mining Company and MDK Incorporated Company in the Voinjama Administrative District, Lofa County.
According to preliminary findings, both companies were allegedly operating without valid EPA permits, lawful community agreements, and sufficient evidence of compliance with Ministry of Mines and Energy licensing requirements.
EPA inspectors also observed environmental degradation and pollution at both operational sites.
At the Kpademai Area, Dulley Group of Mining Company was found actively operating with gravel stockpiles, gold washing plants, excavators, generators, and flexible fuel tanks.
However, the company reportedly failed to provide EPA permits, chemical handling documents, valid mining licenses, or a legally binding community MoU.
Similarly, MDK Incorporated Company in Kabata Town was observed conducting active crushing and mining-related activities, including the use of haul trucks and stockpiles of crushed rocks.
The company also failed to provide valid EPA permits, updated mining licenses, or evidence of an approved explosive storage facility.
Residents, including local leaders, expressed concerns over the companies’ activities, with some community members stating they were largely unaware of the operations being carried out in their areas.
Following the assessment, the EPA ordered the immediate shutdown of both operations and issued non-compliance notices for operating without the required permits and causing environmental degradation and pollution.
The EPA says the action is part of its ongoing nationwide compliance monitoring exercise aimed at protecting communities, safeguarding biodiversity, and ensuring responsible mining practices across Liberia.
