Eurasian Resources Group (ERG) has formally requested the Congolese authorities to reconsider the recently imposed three-month suspension on the copper and cobalt operations of its subsidiary, Boss Mining. This action comes in response to the government’s allegations that the company has been involved in environmental pollution. ERG is actively seeking a fair evaluation of the situation and hopes to engage in constructive dialogue with the authorities to address their concerns and find a mutually beneficial resolution.
In light of the extensive environmental damage and loss of life caused by flooding in March, the mines ministry of the Democratic Republic of Congo has decided to temporarily suspend the operations of Boss Mining in Katanga province. This action, as announced in a statement on June 2, aims to address the significant impacts resulting from the unfortunate incident. The ministry is taking this measure to ensure the necessary assessment and mitigation efforts can be undertaken to safeguard both the environment and human lives.
ERG has attributed the incident to severe rainfall, which they state led to the overflow of high-altitude third-party tailings dams and subsequent flooding of Boss Mining’s water storage facility, affecting the downstream banks of the Kakanda River. Following the occurrence, both state agencies and the company conducted an investigation, which, according to ERG, yielded no evidence of pollution.
The incident took place at a considerable distance from the processing plant, eliminating any possibility of pollution originating from it. The unforeseen torrential downpours that occurred on March 21 and 22 were responsible for the occurrence, marking the first incident of this magnitude and nature. Rigorous water analyses conducted after the disaster have unequivocally confirmed the absence of any pollution.
The Minister of Mines, Antoinette N’Samba Kalambayi, has stated that mining companies responsible for environmental pollution in Africa’s largest copper producer and top cobalt supplier will face consequences. The minister accused ERG of operating with an expired environmental clearance certificate and warned that the three-month ban could be extended.