2023-08-28
Illicit lithium mining by Chinese in Malemba Nkulu in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Territorial authorities in Malemba Nkulu recently uncovered an illicit lithium mining network involving 13 Chinese nationals. According to the information, these individuals were installed in a large enclosure where there are also three large deposits filled with minerals.
The presence of these Chinese and their involvement in illicit lithium mining have been described as sabotage of the Congolese economy. In addition, it was found that these individuals had set up an airfield near their place of residence.
Faced with this worrying situation, the governor of Haut-Lomami dispatched a commission to the scene, made up in particular of the provincial ministers of mines and finance, accompanied by their collaborators. Their mission is to immerse themselves in this file and take the necessary measures to put an end to this illicit exploitation.
Local civil society welcomed the arrests of these Chinese and called on the government to take action to end the looting of the province’s mineral resources. It also denounces the non-respect of specifications and other irregularities in the mining sector of Malemba Nkulu.
“This arrest is an act to be encouraged. The national government must get involved in the mining situation in Malemba Nkulu territory, where systematic looting, illicit exploitation and other illegal practices are reaching alarming levels,” said the Malemba Nkulu civil society spokesperson, Claude Kyasangolo.
This case highlights the importance of the fight against the illicit exploitation of mineral resources, which harms the economy and the sustainable development of the country. It is essential that the authorities strengthen their surveillance and their actions to put an end to these illegal practices and preserve the natural resources of the Democratic Republic of the Congo