ENOR chief accused of dumping cyanide

A former regional director of the Algerian stated-owned Enterprise d’Exploitation des Mines d’Or (ENOR) has disclosed that a very large quantity of cyanide, which is used in the separation of gold from rocks, has been dumped in Tamanrasset, in southern Algeria.

The director, Adila Kaouas, has pointed out that the lethal nature of cyanide poses a threat to both human beings and the environment.

He goes on to accuse the current general manager of the site, a Mr Benzarga, of being responsible for the pollution.

The Tamanrasset site was shut-down in June of last year for restoration works but according to Mr Kaouas, no work has been carried out.

Mr Banzarga has discounted the accusations levelled against him but at the same time has declined to provide any explanation of the allegations of cyanide spillage, arguing that these are matters to be dealt with by the company’s internal systems.

The most significant environmental risk from the cyanide solutions used in gold mining is the possible leaching into soil and groundwater of cyanide at toxic concentrations.

Most mining facilities treat their cyanide waste through several processes that allow it to degrade naturally, although some use methods that enhance the natural degradation.