The province of Lualaba in the Democratic Republic of Congo was the scene of violent events at the end of May 2023. Artisan diggers became angry after being driven out of mining sites they exploited on behalf of Lebanese operators. The latter were accused of having taken control of these sites by force, with the support of certain local authorities. The armed elements present on the ground contributed to the increase in violence, with the firing of weapons of war targeting the demonstrators.
These protests led to a government mission to calm the situation and promise diggers the right to work on certain sites, in collaboration with Lebanese operators. However, this social crisis is deeper than it seems. The mining perimeter concerned is the subject of industrial spoliation by Lebanese operators who have been illegally mining on the Kalakundi, pumping station and Sierra sites for several months.
The mining company Swanmines, holder of the mining rights, filed a complaint with the provincial and national authorities and the Palais de la Nation, without success. Lebanese operators are protected and enjoy total impunity from the military and civil authorities. Testimonies even accuse people claiming to be members of the presidential family of being behind these illegal operations.
The social crisis resulting from these dramatic events draws attention to the mining and security industry in the DRC. Provincial and national authorities must find a quick and just solution to end the illegal exploitation of mining sites and to end the impunity of those responsible