By Laymah Kollie
The Environmental Protection Agency of Liberia has ordered the immediate closure of illegal Class “B” gold mining operations conducted by Nugget Era Mining Company in Gbarpolu County, citing serious violations of national environmental regulations.
In a statement released Thursday, the EPA disclosed that the company had been operating a large-scale mining site in Gbelee Town without obtaining a valid environmental permit, in direct contravention of Liberia’s Environmental Protection and Management Law.
According to the Agency, a compliance inspection carried out in February 2026 revealed extensive mining activities across 32 claims. Investigators observed a fully functional mining camp engaged in continuous day-and-night excavation.
The EPA warned that the operations posed significant environmental risks, particularly to Zorballa Creek and surrounding communities that rely heavily on the water source for drinking, farming, and other livelihood activities.
“Despite acknowledging that no valid environmental permit had been issued, the company proceeded with its mining activities without completing the legally required process,” the statement emphasized.
Following the findings, the EPA mandated the company to immediately halt all mining, excavation, and hauling activities. It also instructed management to secure all equipment and implement urgent measures to prevent further environmental damage, including sediment discharge into nearby waterways.
As part of conditions for any future operations, the Agency requires full compliance with environmental regulations, including the submission and approval of an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), the implementation of an Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP), and clear strategies for site rehabilitation and water protection.
On April 29, an EPA enforcement team, led by the Inspector General and supported by the Liberia National Police, executed the shutdown order.
Authorities impounded three hydraulic mining machines and documented multiple unsafe practices, including abandoned open pits and the absence of progressive land rehabilitation.
Meanwhile, officers of the Liberia Immigration Service attempted to verify the legal status of foreign workers at the site but were unable to obtain the necessary documentation.
EPA has further warned that failure to comply with its directives will attract stricter penalties, including additional equipment confiscation, administrative sanctions, and possible prosecution.
They have however, recommitted the Agency to its mandate, stressing that all natural resource exploitation in Liberia must adhere to environmental laws and sustainability standards.
“Liberia’s natural resources must be developed responsibly, legally, and sustainably. No entity, regardless of size or ownership, is above the environmental laws of Liberia,” the EPA stated.
