Guinea purges officials over illegal gold mining in Siguiri

Guinean President Mamadi Doumbouya has issued a series of decrees targeting corruption and environmental damage in the Siguiri region. In an unprecedented administrative move, 22 territorial and security officials, including several prefects and sub-prefects, have been dismissed from the civil service and the military.

These officials, including Siguiri Prefect Colonel Fayimba Mara, are accused of complicity in illegal gold mining, fraudulent mining permits, and failing to prevent the destruction of arable land and water resources. The crackdown follows the recent inauguration of the country’s first gold refinery, signaling a push for greater mining sovereignty.

In a separate but related action, the Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralization, Camara Djénabou Touré, has dismissed 479 district and neighborhood presidents in the Siguiri region. These local leaders are allegedly involved in facilitating clandestine gold mining and the irregular settlement of foreign nationals. Authorities have indicated that legal proceedings may follow for those found to have actively facilitated illegal activities.