MNG Gold Liberia has publicly refuted allegations that bribery influenced an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report regarding a hydrochloric acid spill incident. Company officials, including the Public Relations Officer Matthew Gbanken, labeled the bribery claims as "unimaginable" and lacking any credibility. The statements were made during a press conference held in Gbarnga on February 12, 2026, aimed at addressing community concerns following the spill incident that occurred on January 18, 2026.

The incident involved a tanker truck transporting hydrochloric acid, which caught fire near Money Sweet Town in the Jorquelleh Electoral District #2. The EPA responded swiftly, estimating about 40 liters of acid were spilled. Their final report, released shortly before the press conference on February 7, concluded that the spill was contained without posing any long-term risks to groundwater, public health, or the environment. MNG Gold expressed its full support for the EPA’s findings and reiterated appreciation for their diligent and independent investigative work.

This incident amplifies ongoing discussions about environmental safety and corporate accountability in Liberia, particularly in relation to the extraction industries. MNG Gold’s strong denial of corruption claims reflects a broader trend among corporations in contested industries to uphold their reputations amid accusations. As communities continue to voice concerns about environmental management practices, the effectiveness of regulatory agencies like the EPA becomes increasingly critical in maintaining public trust and ensuring corporate compliance with environmental standards.