By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, September 11, 2026: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Sierra Leone, with support from the Sierra Leone Police, has apprehended six individuals during enforcement operations targeting illegal mining activities around Bassaia Village in Dansogoaia Chiefdom, Tonkolili District.
The arrests, carried out this morning at three separate mining sites, included three Chinese nationals, two Sierra Leoneans, and one individual whose nationality is yet to be confirmed.
The enforcement action forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen environmental compliance and curb illegal mining across the country. EPA officials noted that unauthorized mining operations continue to pose serious threats to rivers, farmlands, and community livelihoods.
In a statement, the EPA emphasized that illegal mining not only undermines national environmental laws but also jeopardizes public health and sustainable development. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with law enforcement to dismantle illegal camps and prosecute offenders.
“This operation demonstrates our resolve to protect Sierra Leone’s environment and ensure that mining activities are conducted responsibly and within the law,” the EPA declared.
Tonkolili District has been a hotspot for illegal mining, with several recent crackdowns aimed at halting destructive practices such as river dredging and unregulated gold extraction. These activities have been linked to water pollution, loss of livelihoods, and health risks for surrounding communities.
The EPA has repeatedly called on local communities, traditional leaders, and citizens to support enforcement efforts by reporting illegal mining activities.
The six suspects are currently in police custody pending further investigation. Authorities say the crackdown will continue as part of a nationwide campaign to enforce environmental laws and safeguard Sierra Leone’s natural resources.