Justicia ASBL Exposes Mafia-Led Illegal Mining in DRC and Collusion with Republican Guard
The Justicia ASBL, an organization dedicated to human rights, humanitarian law, and development, has condemned the illegal invasion of mining concessions and the plundering of Congolese minerals by organized mafia networks involving Lebanese and Chinese expatriates, allegedly operating in collusion with elements of the Republican Guard (GR) in Haut-Katanga and Lualaba provinces.
Justicia ASBL specifically highlights the Menda mining site, owned by Boss Mining, a subsidiary of the ERG Group, which complies with Congolese mining tax regulations yet remains a victim of illegal mining operations.
The organization reports that Republican Guards continue to block Boss Mining staff from accessing their own site, enabling large-scale mineral theft to persist.
Despite a previous alert last week, Justicia ASBL states that the situation remains unchanged, with evidence from local civil society organizations confirming ongoing looting.
Beyond the economic loss, the organization warns of a potential environmental disaster. The Menda concession, located in Lualaba province, lies near a highly radioactive ore deposit, forming part of the Shinkolobwe uranium mine vein, infamous for its high radiation levels. Justicia ASBL cautions that unregulated mining in this area could expose workers and nearby communities to serious health risks.
Timothée Mbuya, President of Justicia ASBL, urges the Congolese government to take immediate and decisive action against these criminal networks to prevent further exploitation and environmental hazards.
He warns that if left unchecked, these illicit operations could extend beyond economic crimes, potentially linking to international terrorist groups, posing a serious global security risk.
Concerns over the militarization of mining sites were previously raised by Vital Kamerhe during a plenary session on November 13, 2024, where he denounced the presence of soldiers and foreign entities in DRC’s mining sector.
Justicia ASBL calls on authorities to end the lawlessness, ensure proper oversight of mining operations, and protect Congolese resources for legitimate investors and the nation’s benefit.
