In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the security services of South Kivu are increasing their efforts to combat the illegal exploitation of minerals. On Saturday, three Chinese nationals were arrested in possession of a dozen gold bars and a large sum of money,
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With our correspondent in Bukavu, William Basimike
The governorate of South Kivu in DRC said he had been alerted by the passage of a Jeep Land Cruiser which was traveling at high speed on national road 2. On board the vehicle were the three Chinese nationals, their interpreter, the driver and two soldiers from the Congolese army who were ensuring their safety,
According to Governor Jean-Jacques Purusithe gold bars and several bundles containing $100 bills were found hidden under the seats and in the doors. “ And that’s a tenth of what they’ve already spent », regrets the governor
For several months, the latter has stepped up its fight against the illegal exploitation of minerals by foreigners in the province.
Seventeen Chinese already arrested two weeks earlier
This seizure comes two weeks after the arrest of 17 other Chinese nationals in the Mubimbi mining area in Walungu. Three days later, Governor Purusi complained that 13 of them were released and expelled by the general directorate of migration after an order from Kinshasa, without his knowledge.
The president of civil society in South Kivu, Néné Bintu, demands more light in this matter and does not rule out complicity in Kinshasa and abroad. For his part, the national deputy Trésor Lutala Mutiki encourages the governor not to give in to intimidation and pressure wherever it comes, and hopes that gold mining will benefit local communities.
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