The Guinean authorities have announced the arrest of 1263 individuals of various nationalities, including Burkinabes, in a crackdown on illegal gold mining in the Siguiri region. The arrests were made as part of operations against anarchic exploitation of gold in the area. The individuals apprehended have been taken to Conakry for judicial proceedings.
The operations were conducted by the national defense and security ministries, which stated that the arrested individuals would be questioned by judicial police officers from the national police and gendarmerie. After questioning, they would be brought before competent courts in accordance with existing laws. The authorities assured that their rights and dignity would be respected throughout the process.
The crackdown on illegal gold mining is not limited to foreign nationals. The Guinean authorities have also taken action against officials involved in the illegal activities. Twenty-two territorial administrators, including the acting governor, four prefects, and seventeen sub-prefects of the Siguiri region, have been dismissed from the civil service by presidential decree.
In addition to the arrests and dismissals, 479 district and neighborhood presidents have been removed from their positions by the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Decentralization. All those involved are being prosecuted and made available to justice. The authorities have warned that anyone involved in the illegal exploitation of the country's mining resources, regardless of nationality, would be brought to justice and sanctioned in accordance with the law.
The operations against illegal gold mining are ongoing in various regions, including Mandiana, Kérouané, and Kouroussa, as well as other areas affected by anarchic and illegal gold exploitation. The authorities have reiterated their commitment to pursuing these actions with rigor and professionalism.
The Guinean government has emphasized that the measures being taken are in accordance with Guinean laws and regulations. The authorities have also assured that they would continue to take action against those involved in illegal activities, regardless of their nationality or position.
The crackdown on illegal gold mining in Guinea has resulted in significant action against those involved in the illicit activities. The authorities have demonstrated their commitment to enforcing the law and protecting the country's natural resources. The ongoing operations are expected to help curb the problem of illegal gold mining in the region.
Key points
- 1263 people, including Burkinabes, have been arrested in Guinea for involvement in illegal gold mining.
- The crackdown is not limited to foreign nationals, with officials and local leaders also being targeted.
- The operations are ongoing in various regions affected by anarchic and illegal gold exploitation.
