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Côte d'Ivoire illegal gold mining networks linked to Dubai financiers
Authorities in Côte d'Ivoire have identified criminal networks involved in illegal gold mining, with financiers reportedly operating from the sub-region and Dubai. Seydou Coulibaly, Director General of Mines and Geology, confirmed that these networks utilize local logistics relays to manage clandestine sites.
Dr. Ahoua Don-Mello has called for international judicial cooperation and arrest warrants to target the financiers of these operations. He noted that the illegal exploitation causes significant economic and environmental damage, including an estimated loss of 4,600 billion FCFA to the state and the pollution of water sources with mercury and cyanide.
Political figures, including Pascal Affi N’Guessan and Habiba Touré, have criticized the government's handling of the crisis. While government spokespeople have suggested that local community leaders share responsibility for allowing illegal sites, opposition leaders argue the state must take primary responsibility for enforcement and security.
Entities
Ahoua Don-Mello · Côte d'Ivoire · Côte d’Ivoire · Dubai · GS-LOI · Ministry of Mines, Petroleum and Energy · Seydou Coulibaly · United Nations
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Illegal mining activities pollute watercourses with mercury and cyanide. www.yeclo.com · www.aip.ci
- [● 2 SOURCES] Illegal gold mining in Côte d'Ivoire is being financed by networks located in the sub-region and Dubai. www.yeclo.com · www.aip.ci
- [● 2 SOURCES] Illegal gold mining causes an estimated loss of 4,600 billion FCFA to the Ivorian state. www.yeclo.com · www.aip.ci
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Ministry of Mines, Petroleum and Energy has identified criminal chains involved in illegal gold mining. www.yeclo.com · www.aip.ci