FRL refutes claims of barge use on Sepik River

A section of the Sepik River, where low water levels continue to affect transportation and community access in parts of the Upper Sepik region. (Image: Supplied)

Frieda River Limited [FRL] has denied reports claiming it is currently operating barges on the Sepik River, clarifying that the company has not used barges in the area since 2017.

FRL Project Director Phil McCormack issued the statement in response to a recent newspaper article titled “Water level at Sepik River receding, locals affected,” which linked barges on the river to the Frieda River project.

McCormack said any barges currently seen on the Sepik River are not connected to FRL.

“The barges being referred to are likely servicing other projects in the Upper Sepik and towards West Sepik Province. They are not barges operating on behalf of Frieda River Limited,” he said.

The company also clarified that it does not yet have a mine in operation, with the Frieda River project still in its pre-development stage. Construction will only begin once a Special Mining Lease is granted.

While FRL has plans for possible barge use in 2026, McCormack stressed that these plans remain under assessment and no operations have commenced.

FRL acknowledged that low water levels along the Sepik River continue to affect transportation for nearby communities and project logistics. The company said it has recently relied on helicopter transport to move fuel drums after canoes were unable to travel upstream.

The company reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and said it will continue providing accurate information to communities, stakeholders, and the public as the Sepik Development Project progresses.