International

Chinese Nationals Caught with Gold Bars and $800K in Cash in DRC

Published

20 hours ago

Jan 7, 2025.

Three Chinese nationals were arrested in DR Congo with 12 gold bars and $800,000 in cash.
The hidden valuables were uncovered during a secret operation in South Kivu province.
The arrests spotlight corruption and smuggling in DR Congo’s mineral-rich regions.

Authorities in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have arrested three Chinese nationals found in possession of 12 gold bars and $800,000 in cash, according to South Kivu Governor Jean Jacques Purusi.

The gold and cash were reportedly hidden beneath the seats of their vehicle during a secretive operation in the Walungu area, near the Rwandan border.

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The arrests come amidst ongoing efforts to curb illegal mining and mineral smuggling in the resource-rich region.

Eastern DRC, known for its wealth of gold, diamonds, and battery minerals, has long been plagued by exploitation and instability.

Governor Purusi stated that the operation was kept confidential due to fears of interference, citing previous cases where arrested Chinese nationals were released under questionable circumstances.

Last month, 17 Chinese nationals accused of running an illegal gold mine were freed and returned to China, sparking outrage.

Governor Purusi said their release undermined efforts to reform the DRC’s mineral sector. The freed individuals reportedly owed $10 million in taxes and fines, further highlighting concerns about corruption and foreign influence in the industry.

The DRC’s mineral wealth has been a driver of conflict, with militia groups controlling many mines and profiting from illegal sales.

The government alleges that some dealers maintain strong ties to influential figures in Kinshasa, complicating enforcement efforts.

These arrests coincide with tensions in the neighboring North Kivu province, where Rwanda-backed rebels have seized territory.