ArcelorMittal Liberia fined US$400,000 for environmental violations

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia has imposed a US$400,000 administrative fine on ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) due to environmental violations. Additionally, the company has been ordered to pay US$100,000 to support environmental monitoring and assessment.

The enforcement action follows a formal complaint filed on August 11, 2026, by residents of Bolo Town in Nimba County. The residents alleged that AML’s mining activities near Mount Gangra and Mount Yulleton polluted community water sources, damaged crops, and harmed local livelihoods.

A preliminary investigation by the EPA found visible evidence supporting these claims. Investigators identified iron-rich, sediment-laden discharges entering water resources through six discharge points. This sediment was observed in the Karn River and 11 local creeks. The investigation also noted damage to vegetation and farmlands used for cultivating rubber, cocoa, oranges, and rice.