Tata Steel suspected of intentional pollution as Dutch prosecutors launch criminal probe

(Sharecast News) - Dutch prosecutors have launched a criminal investigation of Tata Steel's domestic arm, accusing the manufacturer of "multiple" offences including the intentional release of polluting substances into the environment. The Public Prosecution Service (OM) said the probe relates to Tata Steel's manufacturing site in IJmuiden, Tata Steel IJmuiden (TSIJ), and follows a complaint filed by a lawyer on behalf of over 800 complainants.

After an investigation by the environmental criminal investigation unit of The Hague police unit and the environmental protection agency of South Holland, OM said it has "sufficient grounds to initiate criminal prosecution against the company and bring the case before the court".



TSIJ, which refutes the allegations, is suspected of intentionally and unlawfully releasing harmful substances into the air that can affect public health.

"Tata Steel is also suspected of violating its duty of care, including by performing insufficient maintenance, acting without a permit, and failing to report a number of incidents involving raw coke (a product formed after the heating of coal)," OM said.

In a statement following the decision, TSIJ said it "considers being a good neighbour to the local community of fundamental importance and is fully committed to minimising its impact on the surrounding area wherever possible".

TSIJ said it was "unnecessary" to initiate criminal proceedings and that the case "adds nothing" since it has long been in dialogue with the environmental agency regarding undercooked coke.

"The allegations are being further reviewed by TSIJ. A substantive defence will, of course, be presented during the court proceedings," the firm said.