The Guinean government has stepped up its efforts to combat illegal gold mining in the country's Haute Guinée region. According to a joint statement by the Minister of Security and Civil Protection, General Ahmed Mohamed Oury Diallo, and the Minister Delegate to the National Defense, Ibrahima Khalil Condé, a total of 1,412 people have been arrested in the regions of Siguiri and Kérouané. The arrests were made on November 7 and 8, 2026, by defense and security forces.
The arrests were made as part of a continued crackdown on illegal gold mining, which the government says poses a threat to the environment, public order, and sustainable development. The 1,263 people initially arrested in Siguiri have been handed over to the justice system, with their trial set to begin on November 10, 2026. The government has assured that all individuals concerned are being treated in accordance with legal provisions and with respect for their fundamental rights.
Further operations were carried out in Kérouané and Siguiri on November 7 and 8, resulting in the arrest of 149 more individuals, bringing the total number of arrests to 1,412. Of these, 100 were arrested in Kérouané prefecture, while 49 were arrested in Siguiri. The new arrests have been handed over to the justice system in Kankan.
The government has stated that it will continue to pursue operations against illegal gold mining across the country to preserve natural resources and guarantee the security of populations. The Minister of Security and Civil Protection and the Minister Delegate to the National Defense have emphasized that the fight against anarchic gold mining is a priority.
According to the government, the arrested individuals are being treated in accordance with the law and human rights. The authorities have reassured that the procedure will be carried out with respect for the rights of those concerned.
The crackdown on illegal gold mining is part of a broader effort to protect the environment and ensure sustainable development in Guinea. The government has expressed its determination to continue the fight against this phenomenon, which it says has negative impacts on the country's resources and population.
The situation in Guinea highlights the challenges faced by countries in regulating artisanal and small-scale mining, which can have significant environmental and social impacts. The government's efforts to address the issue are ongoing, with a focus on balancing economic development with environmental protection and social responsibility.
Key points
- 1,412 people arrested in Guinea's crackdown on illegal gold mining.
- Arrests made in Siguiri and Kérouané regions as part of efforts to combat environmental and security threats.
- Government vows to continue fight against illegal gold mining, citing threats to environment, public order, and sustainable development.
