Chinese Nationals Arrested in DR Congo With Gold and Cash
Authorities in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo have arrested three Chinese nationals found with 12 gold bars and $800,000 in cash. The gold and money were hidden under the seats of their vehicle, according to South Kivu Governor Jean Jacques Purusi.
The arrests, carried out in the Walungu area near the Rwandan border, were part of a secret operation aimed at combating illegal mining and mineral smuggling in the region. The governor stated the secrecy was necessary following the controversial release of 17 other Chinese nationals last month, who were accused of running an illegal gold mine but were allowed to return to China.
Eastern DR Congo, rich in gold and other valuable minerals, has long suffered from instability, with militia groups controlling many mines. These groups profit from selling to middlemen, often with the backing of influential figures in the capital, Kinshasa. Governor Purusi emphasized the need to clean up the country’s mineral sector, notorious for corruption and exploitation.
The arrests come amid heightened tension in the region, as Rwanda-backed rebels continue to seize territory in North Kivu province. The situation has also led to international scrutiny, with DR Congo suing Apple over the alleged use of “blood minerals” and accusing foreign companies of fueling violence by supporting illegal mining operations.
The Chinese embassy has yet to comment on the arrests. Meanwhile, the DR Congo government remains committed to addressing the illegal trade of its mineral wealth and ensuring accountability within the sector.