Algerian law enforcement agencies have conducted a successful crackdown on clandestine gold mining operations in the country's eastern regions. In two separate operations, authorities seized nearly 200kg of mercury, a highly toxic substance used in the extraction of gold. The operations, carried out in Constantine and Skikda, resulted in the arrest of 13 individuals and the disruption of two major networks involved in the illicit trade of mercury.
The first operation, conducted by the Regional Service for Combating Organized Crime, targeted two groups involved in the smuggling of mercury in Constantine. Authorities seized 110.50kg of mercury, along with a vehicle modified for clandestine transportation and a sum of money believed to be proceeds from illicit transactions. Nine suspects were taken into custody and later handed over to the prosecutor's office. The second operation in Constantine yielded an additional 65.85kg of mercury, with two more individuals arrested.
In a separate operation in Skikda, a team of four men involved in clandestine gold extraction was apprehended. The group, operating in Azzaba, was using mercury and other chemicals to extract gold without proper authorization or safety precautions. Authorities seized 17.770kg of mercury, a light truck used for logistics, a precision electronic scale, and various equipment for chemical treatment of ore. The arrests and seizures highlight the growing concern over the use of toxic substances in informal gold mining.
The mercury seized in the operations is a highly toxic substance that poses significant risks to human health and the environment. Its use in gold extraction is strictly regulated, and its trade is prohibited. However, the substance remains in high demand by clandestine gold miners, who use it to separate gold particles from rock. The Algerian authorities' efforts to crack down on the illicit trade of mercury aim to curb the environmental and health impacts of informal gold mining.
The investigations, conducted under the authority of the competent prosecutors, have shed light on the complex networks involved in the smuggling and use of mercury in clandestine gold mining. The operations have also highlighted the need for further efforts to identify and prosecute those involved in the illicit trade of mercury. The Algerian authorities have announced that the investigations will continue to identify potential accomplices and track down the sources of the prohibited substance.
The seizures and arrests made in Constantine and Skikda demonstrate the Algerian authorities' commitment to combating the illicit trade of mercury and addressing the environmental and health impacts of informal gold mining. The cases will be brought before the competent courts, and the individuals involved will face charges related to the smuggling of sensitive substances and the trafficking of hazardous and prohibited products.
The use of mercury in gold extraction is a significant concern in Algeria, where informal gold mining is widespread. The authorities' efforts to curb the illicit trade of mercury aim to protect the environment and public health. The successful operations in Constantine and Skikda are part of a broader strategy to address the complex issues surrounding informal gold mining and the use of toxic substances in the sector.
Key points
- Algerian authorities seize nearly 200kg of mercury in two operations targeting clandestine gold mining networks in Constantine and Skikda.
- The mercury seized is a highly toxic substance used in gold extraction, posing significant risks to human health and the environment.
- The operations resulted in the arrest of 13 individuals and the disruption of two major networks involved in the illicit trade of mercury.
