EPA Destroys 5 Giant Dredges in Crackdown on Illegal Moa River Mining
Daniel Amara The Environment Protection Agency (EPA) Sierra Leone, through its Eastern Region Office, has intensified efforts to protect the country’s water sources and river ecosystems following an operation against illegal dredging activities along the Moa River.
On August 17, 2026, the EPA Eastern Region Office, with support from the Sierra Leone Police, responded to a complaint from the Sierra Leone Water Company (SALWACO) concerning pollution of the Moa River near its water intake point serving Kenema Township.
The operation targeted illegal dredging activities at Gandorhun and Mano Jagbala, where authorities destroyed five giant dredges believed to be contributing to pollution and environmental degradation along the river.
The EPA said the intervention forms part of ongoing efforts to safeguard water sources and protect river ecosystems from the harmful effects of illegal dredging.
The agency’s action also highlights growing concerns over activities that threaten the quality of water supplied to communities, particularly around critical water intake points.
The EPA, together with relevant law enforcement and environmental stakeholders, continues to strengthen measures aimed at ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and protecting Sierra Leone’s natural resources.