Llynfi pollution investigation ends without further action being taken

The investigation into the River Llynfi pollution incident that took place on 31 July 2020 has ended after Natural Resources Wales (NRW) deemed that there is no realistic prospect of conviction.

The incident had a highly detrimental effect on the river; an NRW fish-kill assessment estimated that over 45,000 fish and other river life had died in the incident. This figure is based on an extrapolation of a sample, and not an actual count.

NRWs investigation team worked tirelessly to investigate and seek to gather evidence to establish what happened and to bring the person or people responsible for polluting the river to justice. However, there is no realistic prospect of conviction against any company or individual and therefore no charges will be brought against anyone in relation to the incident.

Ann Weedy, Operations Manager for Natural Resources Wales in mid Wales said:

“Our officers have been appalled by the damage caused to the River Llynfi by this incident and are very disappointed that we have not been able to bring those responsible to justice.

“The River Llynfi is a Site of Special of Scientific Interest in a Special Area of Conservation. The fact that such a significant number of aquatic animals died in the incident shows just how rich the wildlife was in this small tributary river. Thankfully, assessments we carried out earlier this year are showing promising signs of recovery in the river.

“We have exhausted every lead and done everything we can to be able to prove what happened, but with the deepest regret, this investigation has now ended. We will consider reopening the investigation if compelling new evidence comes to light. If anyone has such evidence, we urge them to contact us.”