Published: August 6, 2024
Nyanvorla, Margibi — Villagers living along the Nyarfor River in Margibi County are suffering from severe skin diseases and other health issues, which they blame on toxic waste discharged by the Chinese-owned Lee Group of Enterprises. The company, operating a rubber processing plant for over a decade in Corneh Farm, Salala District, Bong County, is accused of polluting the Nyarfor River, the community’s only source of water.
Report by By Emmanuel Degleh, Margibi County
The affected communities, including Yarkpasue, Johnny Bah Village, David Town, and Cooper Farm in Cinta Township, allege that the company’s waste disposal practices have contaminated the river with chemical waste and human feces, leading to widespread illness and despair.
“We used to rely on this river for drinking water, fishing, and farming. Now, it’s a source of illness and despair,” said Korpo Mulbah, a resident of Yarkpasue Village. She described how villagers are often forced to use the polluted water for drinking and cooking, resulting in diarrhea and skin rashes, especially among children.
Madam Mulbah’s frustration is echoed by other residents, such as Mamie Tewaygar, who lament that their pleas to the Lee Group to install hand pumps have been ignored. “The Lee Group management said they cannot provide us with hand pumps because they are not operating within Margibi County, but they forget that they are polluting our river,” Tewaygar alleged.
David Mopolu, Town Chief of Nyanvorla, is calling for immediate intervention from local authorities and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to investigate and address the pollution. He emphasized the urgent need for the government to protect the river and hold the company accountable for the environmental and health damages caused.
Local health clinics have reported an increase in waterborne diseases, and reporters visiting the area confirmed sightings of rashes on children and evidence of chemical spills into the river. Despite attempts to reach the Lee Group of Enterprises for comment, the company has not responded.
Residents are now considering legal action, with community leaders in discussions with lawyers and environmental advocacy organizations. “We won’t stop until justice is served,” vowed community leader Mamie Vah.
The situation remains dire, with villagers fearing a broader health crisis if the pollution continues unchecked.
See video of how the creek is being polluted below
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