All wastewater discharges into the Sabeto River have been suspended following a toxic spill that killed fish and triggered national outcry.
The Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources (MLMR) confirmed the emergency shutdown as it leads a sweeping investigation into the unlawful discharge of untreated wastewater by Lion One Metals Ltd on May 22.
The incident has been described as a serious environmental breach.
The spill, which lasted four hours, devastated aquatic life along a 2 kilometre stretch of the river and has prompted a full regulatory and community-led response.
“This incident is a stark reminder that Fiji’s mining operations must meet the highest environmental standards,” Minister or Lands and Mineral Resources Filimoni Vosarogo said.
“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.”
Water sample testing is underway, with results expected this week. In the meantime, the company is barred from releasing any wastewater into the river.
MLMR, backed by the Department of Environment and other agencies, is leaving no stone unturned. Their investigation involves:
• Collection and lab testing of water and sediment samples
• Interviews with mine personnel
• A complete audit of discharge systems
In addition, MLMR has imposed a six-month rolling environmental audit on Lion One to assess its environmental protection framework and drive genuine reform.
