Lion One Responsible for Chemical Spillage into Sabeto River

The Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources has issued its strongest regulatory response to date following a serious environmental violation by Lion One Metals Limited.

The company discharged untreated wastewater into the Sabeto River last Thursday, prompting swift government intervention.

The breach, which lasted four hours, caused significant fish deaths along a 2-kilometre stretch and sparked widespread concern from local communities and environmental watchdogs.

Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources Filimoni Vosarogo has warned all mining companies that no environmental breaches will be tolerated.

"We are holding every operator to the highest regulatory standard, and we encourage all stakeholders to work together to protect our land, our people, and our resources," Mr Vosarogo said in a statement.

"This incident is a stark reminder that Fiji's mining operations must meet the highest environmental standards. 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," he said.

The ministry has suspended all wastewater discharges from the site and launched a joint investigation with other agencies. The probe includes sample testing, staff interviews, and a full audit of the company's discharge practices, with water quality results expected within a week.

Mr Vosarogo added that to ensure that such a failure does not recur, the ministry would implement continuous environmental audits of Lion One's operations over the next six months.

"The company's environmental protection framework will be put under rigorous scrutiny."

The ministry has launched a unified response strategy that includes:

• All agencies to submit investigation reports within six weeks.
• Formation of a multi-agency Compensation Committee to oversee social and environmental redress.
• Mandated community engagement requiring Lion One to hold outreach programmes, site visits, and regular briefings to rebuild public trust.

Feedback: inoke.rabonu@fijisun.com.fj