By Fatima Kpaka
Freetown, Sierra Leone — Hon. Mustapha Sellu, Member of Parliament for Bangruwa Chiefdom, Moyamba District, has lodged a formal complaint in Parliament regarding the operations of FS Mining Company and Shunda-Ore Mining Company, citing their non-compliance with environmental laws and the hazardous impact of their activities on local communities.
During Tuesday’s parliamentary sitting (May 6, 2025), Hon. Sellu informed the Speaker of Parliament that small-scale mining companies operating in his constituency were violating provisions of the National Protected Area Authority (NPAA) Act, failing to uphold environmental protection standards, and endangering the lives of residents.
According to Hon. Sellu, official documents submitted to the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Minerals Agency (NMA) indicated that these companies were required to implement dust suppression measures along mining corridors—a commitment they have failed to honor.
“The people in my constituency are suffering due to non-compliance,” he declared, adding that public disclosure procedures require mining companies to mitigate environmental risks such as dust pollution.
Hon. Sellu recounted a near-accident he experienced while traveling from his constituency, highlighting the dangers posed by large mining trucks operating recklessly in residential areas.
“Eight 40-foot trailers were moving in and out of the village on a narrow road, almost causing a collision with an oncoming motorbike,” he revealed, stressing the urgency of government intervention.
Parliament Orders Investigation
Hon. Sellu urged the Speaker to summon the EPA and NMA to address the violations and concerns raised. In response, the Speaker directed the Committees on Mines and Environment to conduct a joint investigation and present a detailed report within one month.
The Speaker also admonished committee members, emphasizing that previous complaints had been ignored or left unresolved: “Many times, when complaints are made, nothing happens. The committees must summon the relevant parties, caution them, and ensure clear expectations are set. If necessary, produce a report and present recommendations to the House—once approved, they become law.”
With Parliament now actively engaged in the matter, mining companies operating in Moyamba District could face strict regulatory enforcement if found in violation of environmental and safety regulations. The EPA and NMA will likely be required to clarify their oversight and ensure compliance measures are enforced.
Hon. Sellu’s appeal is expected to shape future mining regulations, aiming to protect citizens from harmful industrial practices while upholding legal and environmental safeguards.