Fiji’s Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources (MLMR) has enforced its toughest regulatory response to date following a serious environmental breach by Lion One Metals Limited, after untreated wastewater was discharged into the Sabeto River, Nadi on 22 May.
The four-hour spill caused significant fish deaths along a two-kilometre stretch of the river, triggering public outrage and concern among downstream communities.
The breach is being treated as a major violation of environmental standards.
“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,” said Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo in a statement.
Lion One Metals Limited has taken full responsibility.
The company’s Chief Operating Officer, Patrick Hickey, said the discharge was due to a critical internal miscommunication- instead of releasing treated water from a single pipe as planned, all three discharge pipes were opened at full capacity.
In response, the company has committed to:
*The immediate installation of a pre-treatment facility for all future discharges;
*Direct engagement with traditional authorities, including the Turaga, Tui Sabeto and village elders of Korobebe;
*Environmental compensation for species of fish and eels killed; and
*Increased transparency and compliance monitoring.
The Ministry, in coordination with the Department of Environment and other agencies, has launched a full-scale investigation.
This includes water and sediment testing, on-site staff interviews, and a review of the mine’s discharge procedures.
All wastewater discharges from the Lion One site have been suspended until further notice. Water sample results are expected within the week.
In addition, MLMR has imposed a six-month environmental audit on the company. This will involve continuous monitoring to test the robustness of its environmental protection systems and enforce meaningful change.
Community concerns have been vocal and consistent.
The Yaubula Committee and Roko Tui Ba highlighted the need for:
*Stronger community consultation;
*Transparent communication between mining companies and landowners; and
*An independent audit of Lion One’s environmental practices.
The Ministry acknowledged these concerns and committed to ensuring the community’s voice remains central to the process.
The government has announced a multi-agency response to manage the aftermath and prevent future breaches:
*Investigation reports – All relevant agencies must submit findings within six weeks.
*Compensation committee – A task force comprising the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development, Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Ministry of Fisheries, Ministry of Health, Water Authority of Fiji, Commissioner Western’s office, Roko Tui Ba, and the iTaukei Land Trust Board will oversee redress efforts.
*Community engagement – Lion One is now required to conduct outreach programmes, site visits, and regular briefings to rebuild trust with affected communities.
The Ministry reiterated its firm position against environmental breaches.
“MLMR remains steadfast in its commitment to uphold responsible mining practices. Environmental breaches will not 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.”
The Sabeto incident marks a turning point in Fiji’s approach to mining regulation, sending a clear signal that environmental negligence will be met with swift, coordinated, and uncompromising action.
