In South Kivu, authorities have arrested twenty Chinese nationals linked to valuable minerals and large sums of cash, underscoring ongoing tensions in the mining sector. Earlier arrests included individuals with gold bars and cash, while another group faced charges for illegal mining but was released. The region, rich in resources, struggles with unregulated operations, particularly by Chinese firms. Governor Purusi aims for sustainable development and regulation enforcement following a recent ban on mining activities.
Recent Arrests of Chinese Nationals in South Kivu
In a span of just three weeks, authorities in South Kivu apprehended twenty Chinese nationals, found either in possession of valuable minerals or substantial amounts of cash. This surge in arrests highlights ongoing tensions in the region’s mineral sector.
Earlier this year, three Chinese individuals were detained after authorities discovered twelve gold bars and $800,000 in cash hidden beneath the seats of their vehicle. The governor of South Kivu revealed that law enforcement acted on a tip-off, which led to the comprehensive search of the vehicle and the subsequent seizure of these items.
Challenges in Regulating the Mining Sector
Another group of seventeen Chinese nationals faced arrest for allegedly running an illegal gold mining operation but were released shortly thereafter and permitted to return to China. Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki noted that these individuals owed the government a staggering $10 million in taxes and fines, further complicating the region’s efforts to maintain control over its mineral resources.
The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo is endowed with abundant natural resources, including gold and diamonds, which are crucial for producing batteries for mobile phones and electric vehicles. The intense competition for these resources has fueled decades of conflict in the area. Many mines are under the control of militias that profit from sales to intermediaries, leading to significant wealth concentration among a select few.
Notably, a 2024 investigation revealed that out of nearly 650 mine operators in the region, over 550 were operating without valid permits, with many being financed by Chinese capital. Although artisanal mining is officially banned for foreigners in Kinshasa, Chinese companies often collaborate with local cooperatives to bypass these restrictions.
Artisanal mining is characterized by small-scale operations, typically conducted by individuals lacking heavy machinery. According to a Congolese NGO specializing in mining regulation, approximately half of the cooperatives in the province partner with Chinese firms. Following the recent arrests, Governor Purusi expressed that while he does not oppose Chinese investment outright, it is essential for these companies to operate legally to contribute to the country’s development.
Governor Purusi has articulated his vision for reinvesting mining profits into essential infrastructure and agricultural projects, aiming for sustainable development in the province. The recently approved provincial budget allocates $6 million per month for these initiatives, which Purusi hopes to fund through mining revenues.
Historically, civil society organizations and church members have been the primary advocates against the influence of powerful mining companies, often connected to high-ranking political figures. However, in July 2024, Governor Purusi took a decisive step by imposing a ban on all mining activities in South Kivu, urging companies to adhere to Congolese mining regulations before resuming operations.
In the wake of this ban, an unexpected influx of over 540 companies sought to negotiate with the governor, far exceeding the 117 illegal operators initially invited for discussions. By September, Purusi allowed mining companies to restart their activities but emphasized the need for further investigations and a rigorous enforcement of regulations.