Illegal dumping of fish waste along Namosi Rd has triggered swift enforcement action, with authorities warning that breaches of environmental laws will not be tolerated.
Minister for Environment and Climate Change Lynda Tabuya delivered a firm message following confirmation that the waste was traced to a fish processing facility operating in Walu Bay.
The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MECC) said a joint inspection uncovered serious violations of environmental regulations.
Investigations found the company was operating without a valid waste disposal permit and had engaged an unlicensed waste transporter.
Ms Tabuya condemned the incident, describing the conduct as unacceptable and harmful to both public health and the environment. She said irresponsible practices also undermined businesses that comply with the law.
Authorities revealed that the vehicle carrying the fish waste had earlier been refused entry at the Naboro Landfill after inspectors found the waste was improperly packaged. The same load was later unlawfully dumped along Namosi Rd.
Officials have since confirmed that the waste was recovered and transported safely to Naboro by a licensed operator.
The company responsible will be issued a non-compliance notice, with further enforcement action to proceed under Section 45 of the Environment Management Act 2005.
Ms Tabuya also signalled tougher measures ahead, warning businesses that compliance with environmental laws was mandatory.
She said the Government was reviewing the litter legislation, with plans to introduce stricter penalties and potential criminal liability for corporations that flout the rules.
