The Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources expects an investigation report in the contamination of the Sabeto river will be ready within six weeks.
While the report is being done, a Compensation Committee has been formed that includes the Ministry, Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Ministry of Fisheries, Ministry of Health, Water Authority of Fiji, Commissioner Western office, Roko Tui Ba and the iTaukei Land Trust Board.
Lion One, the mining company that operates the Tuvatu Gold Mine has admitted there was a spillage of contaminated water into the river due to human error.
“This incident is a stark reminder that Fiji’s mining operations must meet the highest environmental standards,” said Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo.
“Any breach—intentional or accidental—will attract the strongest penalties permissible by law.”
“We are not here to be lenient. We are here to protect our people, our environment, and our future.”
