DMP clears Buru over gas leak allegations

The Department of Mines and Petroleum has denied reports of a gas leak at Buru Energy's Yulleroo project near Broome after carrying out an inspection of the site yesterday.

“No gas readings were detected on the site initially,” DMP executive director Jeff Haworth said.

“The inspection revealed there is some physical damage to a valve stem, which has been bent, and is the cause of a minor gas leak.”

Mr Haworth said the leak posed minimal risk, however it presented a serious concern if a third party had been involved.

“In light of the serious nature of the damage involved, the department will be investigating further,” he said.

“It appears at this stage that there has been no equipment or process failure by the company.”

Buru executive chairman Eric Streitberg said the allegations were made by anti-gas protestors, who broke into the compound and recorded video of the supposed leak.

“We would like to think that those who recorded the video are not responsible for the damage to the valve,” he said.

Mr Haworth said the damaged valve would be repaired as quickly as possible.

The well is currently suspended but is inspected regularly.

At the last inspection of the site, the well head valve was not damaged, according to Buru.

Shares in Buru were 2.5 per cent lower at 39 cents per share at 10:15am.