By Kadijatu Bangura | Daily Scope Newspaper
Sierra Leone’s Environmental Protection Agency has destroyed 31 illegal dredging machines in a two-day crackdown on unregulated mining along the Moa and Maleh rivers in Kenema and Kailahun districts.
The joint operation, led by EPA’s Kenema regional office with support from security forces, targeted dredges actively mining inside both rivers. Officials said all equipment seized during the sweep was destroyed on-site to prevent further environmental damage.
EPA regional head Abu Bakarr S. Massaquoi described the exercise as a “decisive step” in enforcing environmental laws and protecting critical water sources. “This sends a clear message: unlawful dredging will be met with strict consequences,” he said.
The agency noted that illegal dredging continues to degrade water quality, destroy aquatic habitats, and undermine livelihoods that depend on the river systems. The enforcement drive forms part of a wider national strategy to safeguard water resources amid rising pressure from unregulated mining.
Massaquoi, however, cautioned that enforcement alone will not end the practice. He called for stronger collaboration with local communities and traditional authorities to improve monitoring and ensure timely reporting of illicit operations.
“Community vigilance is vital,” he said. “Residents must alert us to suspicious activity so we can intervene quickly and hold violators accountable.”
Environmental experts warn that unchecked dredging poses long-term ecological and economic risks, particularly in eastern regions where rivers remain key sources of water, food, and income.
The EPA has vowed to maintain surveillance and scale up rapid-response actions against violations, reiterating its mandate to protect Sierra Leone’s natural resources.
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