Over 45 Arrested in South Kivu for Mining Fraud and Illicit Activities
More than 45 individuals involved in fraud and illegal mineral exploitation in South Kivu have been arrested and detained at the central prison in Bukavu.
Among those arrested are two magistrates. Governor Jacques Purusi made this announcement during a meeting at Concorde Stadium on Sunday, September 8.
Governor Purusi condemned the “disorder” in the South Kivu mining sector and pledged to address it. “We initially believed there were only about a hundred entities illegally mining minerals in South Kivu.
However, we discovered numerous illegal activities, including the use of acids in water, poor compensation for workers, and the introduction of industrial machinery.
We identified over 540 companies involved, each extracting at least 110 kilos of gold per month. This demonstrates significant plundering, often with complicity from individuals in Kinshasa. We are taking measures to stop this,” said Governor Purusi.
The two magistrates implicated in these illegal activities have been transferred to Kinshasa after their initial detention in Bukavu’s central prison.
“We have activated the justice system, conducted investigations, and arrested several individuals, including the two magistrates. They are now in prison in Kinshasa. At least 45 people have been arrested and detained in Bukavu for various scams,” Governor Purusi stated.
In response to the crackdown, mining companies and cooperatives in South Kivu have pledged to comply with local regulations and to cultivate 100 to 150 hectares for food production to benefit the local population.
