Three Chinese nationals were arrested in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s South Kivu province with 12 gold bars and $800,000 in cash hidden under their vehicle seats. The arrests followed a covert operation based on a tip-off and were linked to the region’s illegal mining activities, driven by militia groups controlling mineral resources. This operation highlights ongoing corruption and criminal activity in DR Congo’s mining sector, where exploitation dates back to the colonial era.
Governor Jean Jacques Purusi, who led the operation, expressed concern over the influence of powerful figures in Kinshasa and criticized the release of 17 Chinese nationals involved in an illegal gold mine, which undermined efforts to reform the industry. The arrest comes amid rising tensions over mineral resource control, with DR Congo filing a lawsuit against Apple for allegedly benefiting from “blood minerals.” The case underscores the global scrutiny of DR Congo’s mineral sector and the challenges of addressing illegal mining, smuggling, and the involvement of international actors.
