Golden Lead Factory, a Fishmeal Production Company operating on the seafront of Gunjur in the Southern Kombo area of The Gambia has been indicted by the National Environment Agency (NEA) and has today appeared at Brikama Magistrates Court to respond to charges that it polluted the environment contrary to the laws of The Gambia.
The case was called and then subsequently adjourned to 4th July 2017. It would be recalled that the communities of Gunjur and Kartong have mounted a campaign against the environmental pollution that resulted from the activities of the Fishmeal company.
In a Facebook post, Dr Amadou Scattred Janneh remarked: "We thank the National Environment Agency for playing its rightful role in taking the company to court. Our own suit is coming too."
This indictment is a welcome news to the coastal community of Gunjur who has endured months of terrible smell as a result of the processing of fish at the production company. The discharge of waste water into the nearby lagoon and the ocean has resulted in the coloration of the Bolong Fenyo lagoon and the possible contamination of the sea water in Gunjur.
We will keep following this developing story as it unfolds.