The Guinean authorities have arrested over 1,300 people in the Siguiri prefecture as part of efforts to combat illegal mining and environmental degradation. According to Fallou Doumbouya, the prosecutor general near the Conakry Court of Appeal, these operations have led to the apprehension of numerous individuals, including citizens of various West African countries. The arrests were made to enforce the government's policy on penal matters, overseen by the Minister of Justice and Human Rights, Garde des Sceaux.
The arrested individuals are facing judicial procedures, with the prosecutor general's office working to coordinate public action and organize court hearings. On November 9, 2026, the prosecutor general near the Conakry Court of Appeal petitioned the Supreme Court to transfer cases from the Siguiri court to other jurisdictions under the Conakry Court of Appeal's jurisdiction. This decision was made due to the large number of cases and security concerns. The Supreme Court ruled to transfer the cases, and subsequent court hearings were held from November 10 to 12, 2026.
Following the court hearings, various Guinean courts handed down prison sentences ranging from 18 months to two years. The convicted individuals also face additional penalties, including bans from entering Guinean territory for five to ten years. Foreign nationals among the convicted will be expelled from the country. These sentences were handed down by courts in different parts of Guinea, including Kaloum, Dixinn, Matam, Guéckédou, Forécariah, and Coyah.
In addition to the above-mentioned cases, the Kankan court has also made decisions regarding 122 individuals of various West African nationalities. These decisions included prison sentences and, in some cases, bans on staying in Guinea. Meanwhile, minors who were arrested have been presented to the special prosecutor's office near the Conakry Children's Court and have received specific protection and assistance measures in line with the Children's Code.
The Guinean authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the country's natural resources and environment. According to Fallou Doumbouya, the protection of natural resources, environmental preservation, and the safeguarding of national heritage are essential for the country's sovereignty and responsibility to future generations. The authorities have also assured that court hearings have been conducted in line with fundamental principles of penal proceedings.
The Cour de répression des infractions économiques et financières (CRIEF), a specialized court for economic and financial crimes, continues to function normally. The prosecutor general's office has emphasized its determination to continue implementing the government's penal policy while upholding the law, judicial independence, and fundamental rights.
The authorities have vowed to continue their efforts to combat illegal mining and environmental degradation in Guinea. With the cases transferred to different courts, the judicial process is expected to continue, and the authorities will work to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.
Key points
- Over 1,300 people arrested in Guinea's Siguiri region for illegal mining and environmental degradation.
- Prison sentences handed down range from 18 months to two years, with additional penalties including bans from entering Guinean territory.
- Minors arrested have received specific protection and assistance measures in line with the Children's Code.
