Newmont paid nearly $5 million in compensation to the government of Ghana for an overflow of process solution containing a small amount of dilute sodium cyanide at our Ahafo gold mine last October.
The accident occurred due to a pond-level instrument malfunction during a mill maintenance shutdown. Approximately 850 fish died as a result of the event when process solution coursed through small waterways and rainy season swamps. The overflow was neutralized, and ongoing water sampling confirms there is no threat from cyanide to human health or residual environmental impact.
"We accept responsibility for any failure to meet our standards, and we reiterate our regret and apologies for the overflow and for any anxiety caused in the local community over the safety of their drinking water supplies and fish," said Jeff Huspeni, senior vice president for African Operations. "We are committed to improving our environmental controls and reporting mechanisms. Our first priority remains the safety of our neighbors, employees and the environment."
