CD Congo, Democratic Republic News

Heavy Fighting Claims Over 100 Lives in Goma, DRC Amidst M23 Rebel Advance

Intense clashes between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) army and the M23 rebels have resulted in at least 100 fatalities and 1,000 injuries in the city of Goma over the past three days. The fighting erupted after M23 fighters, allegedly backed by Rwanda, entered the city on Sunday, creating a dire humanitarian crisis, as noted by Jens Laerke from the UN humanitarian office. Local hospitals are overwhelmed with victims suffering from gunshot wounds and shrapnel injuries. According to the International Committee of the Red Cross, more than 100 patients with severe injuries were admitted within 24 hours, primarily children. The conflict has displaced over 500,000 people since January, according to DRC Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner. Protests have erupted in Kinshasa, the capital, against perceived foreign complicity in the violence, leading to the attacks on several embassies. The U.S. has advised its citizens in Goma to shelter in place and to leave the country as soon as possible. The M23 militia is one of over 100 armed factions vying for control of the mineral-rich eastern DRC, a region critical for the production of tantalum and cobalt.
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DRC President Calls for Military Recruits Amid Rebel Advancements

In response to the escalating conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), President Félix Tshisekedi has urged young people to enlist in the military as Rwandan-backed M23 rebels continue their advance. According to local sources reported by Agence France-Presse, the M23 group recently captured two districts in South Kivu province, moving closer to the provincial capital Bukavu without encountering significant resistance. During a late-night address, Tshisekedi committed to a "vigorous and coordinated response" to the rebels, criticizing the international community for its perceived inaction amid worsening security conditions that could destabilize the broader Great Lakes region. Following the capture of Goma, a key city in North Kivu, Tshisekedi emphasized the need for citizens to join the military, stressing that they are "the spearhead of our country." The conflict has drawn international condemnation, with the United States expressing concern over the violence and the UK threatening to withhold aid to Rwanda. Despite these pressures, Rwandan officials assert that the M23's military efforts are necessary to combat DRC-based armed groups.
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DR Congo's President Promises Strong Action Against M23 Rebels as Fighting Escalates

Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi has vowed to launch a "vigorous and coordinated" military response against the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, who have captured significant territory in the eastern city of Goma and are reportedly advancing southward. In a televised address, he criticized the international community for its inaction amid the escalating security crisis, which has displaced approximately 500,000 people, according to the United Nations. Tshisekedi urged all Congolese citizens to unite in support of the armed forces, asserting, "The Democratic Republic of Congo will not let itself be humiliated or crushed." As the conflict intensifies, the city of Goma faces severe shortages of water, electricity, and food supplies. Regional leaders, including Rwanda's Paul Kagame and South Africa's Cyril Ramaphosa, recently exchanged sharp words over the conflict, exacerbating tensions. Meanwhile, Angola has called for an urgent meeting between Congolese and Rwandan leaders in Luanda to facilitate peace talks that have previously failed to ease hostilities. The humanitarian situation continues to worsen as fighting continues between armed groups, with the international community pressed to intervene.
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Chaos Erupts in Kinshasa as Protests and Violence Escalate Amid Rebel Attacks

Protests erupted in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), on January 28, 2025, as demonstrators attacked several foreign embassies amidst growing violence linked to the M23 rebel group in the eastern part of the country. Crowds set fire to barricades and targeted the embassies of Kenya, South Africa, Uganda, the Netherlands, France, and Belgium. The U.S. Embassy has temporarily ceased operations due to safety concerns and advised American citizens to shelter in place. The unrest was triggered by the M23's advance into Goma, a city in the resource-rich eastern DRC, where humanitarian organizations report that hundreds of thousands are fleeing for their lives. Reports indicate that dead bodies are lying in the streets, hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties, and internet access has been cut off. The DRC government has accused Rwandan troops of participating in the violence and called for action from the UN Security Council. In response, the Rwandan ambassador denied any involvement in the fighting, while the DRC's Foreign Minister called for accountability for the alleged war crimes. Amidst this turmoil, an alarming situation has developed concerning a biomedical laboratory in Goma storing dangerous Ebola virus samples, which is in danger due to potential power outages and lack of security. The Red Cross has warned of catastrophic consequences if the lab is compromised. In response to the increasing humanitarian crisis, the European Union announced an additional €60 million in aid to help displaced individuals in and around Goma. UN Secretary-General António Guterres is actively engaging with both DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame in efforts to de-escalate the situation and protect civilians from the ongoing violence.
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M23 Rebels Seize Control of Goma Amid Escalating Violence in DR Congo

Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo: Violence has intensified in Goma as Rwandan-backed M23 rebels solidify control over the city, marking the worst escalation of conflict in over a decade. On January 29, 2025, fighters affiliated with the M23 group marched into the eastern Congo city, reportedly seizing the airport and impeding humanitarian aid to displaced individuals. Over 1,200 Congolese soldiers have surrendered during the clashes, which have claimed more than 100 lives and left nearly 1,000 injured. The fighting has transformed Goma, a city of nearly two million, into a battleground. Witnesses reported airstrikes and significant casualties throughout the area. One local resident recounted fleeing the violence, highlighting the rapid deterioration of the situation. In response, the Congolese capital Kinshasa has erupted in protests, with demonstrators targeting foreign embassies, condemning perceived foreign interference. An urgent summit between DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame is scheduled as international calls for a ceasefire grow louder. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has described the recent rise in hostilities as "deeply troubling" and urged Kagame for immediate de-escalation efforts. Meanwhile, Kagame acknowledged discussions with the U.S. regarding a ceasefire but did not commit to military withdrawal from the region. The M23 group represents a continuation of historical conflicts rooted in the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Rwanda accuses the DRC government of harboring former militia members responsible for the genocide, while the DRC alleges Rwanda uses proxy forces to exert control over valuable mineral resources. As the situation unfolds, the international community closely monitors the developments in Goma, with implications for regional stability and humanitarian efforts.
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France Pushes for UN Action Against Rwanda Over M23 Rebel Support in DRC

France is rallying international support for a UN Security Council resolution that would explicitly identify Rwanda as a supporter of the M23 rebel group in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This comes in light of reports that up to 4,000 Rwandan troops are supporting M23's recent military advances, including their takeover of parts of Goma, the DRC's largest city. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for the Rwandan defense forces to cease their support for the rebels and withdraw from DRC territory. His statement marks a significant acknowledgment of Rwanda's role in escalating violence in the region. While France's ambassador to the UN, Nicolas de Rivière, has described Rwanda's actions as a serious threat to regional peace, practical measures to isolate Rwandan President Paul Kagame are still under discussion. In the past, sanctions have successfully pressured Rwanda to withdraw, particularly during a similar conflict in 2012. The recent emergency security council meeting highlighted the need for the withdrawal of "external forces" but did not name Rwanda directly. British and American representatives have also urged for Kagame's retreat, although Western nations remain cautious about imposing immediate sanctions, given their historical ties with Rwanda. In response to the escalating situation, Kenyan President William Ruto has called for an extraordinary summit of the East African Community. He expects both the DRC and Rwandan leaders to attend, though confirmation is pending. Frustration persists among DRC representatives, who accuse Rwanda of plundering their mineral resources amidst the ongoing conflict. Rwandan officials, however, maintain that their presence in DRC is justified to protect the Congolese Tutsi community from rebel threats.
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Red Cross Warns of Ebola Virus Threat Amid Escalating Violence in Goma

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has issued a warning regarding the potential outbreak of the Ebola virus from a laboratory in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, amidst escalating fighting in the region. On Sunday, Rwandan soldiers and members of the M23 rebel group advanced into the city center, leading thousands to flee from the violence. Patrick Youssef, ICRC's Regional Director for Africa, expressed grave concerns about the National Institute for Biomedical Research lab located near the ICRC delegation, citing a risk of power outages that could compromise the safety of viral samples stored there. He emphasized the urgent need to protect these samples due to the ongoing conflict. As the fighting intensifies, reports indicate that over 360 people have been treated for injuries in local hospitals, with at least 17 fatalities confirmed. Civilians, including women and children, have disproportionately suffered from the violence, leading to a worsening humanitarian situation. Goma, located in the conflict-prone eastern provinces of North and South Kivu, has been a hotspot of violence for decades, with the M23 group emerging as a significant armed faction since 2021. The ongoing strife has resulted in widespread displacement and deepening humanitarian crises in the region.
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M23 Rebels Seize Control of Goma Amid Escalating Conflict in Eastern DRC

Fighters from the M23 rebel group, reportedly backed by Rwanda, have claimed control over the eastern city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) after a swift military advance. This development has triggered widespread displacement and raised fears of a broader regional conflict. Lawrence Kanyuka, a spokesperson for the M23 group, announced via social media that the liberation of Goma was successful and urged residents to remain calm. However, uncertainty looms regarding the extent of the city's control, with reports of gunfire near strategic locations including the airport and the border with Rwanda. Local reactions to the rebel incursion have been mixed, with some residents expressing fear while others appeared to welcome the fighters. Witnesses noted that people were seen cheering and engaging with armed rebels, although others remained cautious and hesitant to venture outside their homes. In a stark illustration of the situation, the UN's special representative, Bintou Keita, reported that M23 and Rwandan forces were advancing into Goma, leading to mass panic and the use of civilians as human shields. Meanwhile, DRC's Foreign Minister accused Rwanda of "frontal aggression," and called for international intervention to restore peace. In response to the crisis, Kenyan President William Ruto, chair of the East African Community, called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and promised an extraordinary summit to address the escalating conflict. The humanitarian ramifications of the M23’s actions threaten to exacerbate an already dire situation, as over one-third of North Kivu's population are currently displaced. Experts warn that Goma’s status as a humanitarian hub is at risk, with critical services and infrastructure suffering severe disruptions due to ongoing violence. The international community, led by the United Nations, is currently assessing the volatile situation and strategizing to protect both peacekeeping forces and civilians as hostilities continue.
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Prospects Dwindle for Africa’s Largest Hydropower Project Amid Financial and Governance Concerns

The ambitious Grand Inga Dam project in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faces significant challenges as its long-awaited construction continues to stall. Proposed to be the world's largest hydroelectric plant, producing more electricity than China's Three Gorges Dam, the project aims to address the critical electricity shortages affecting 600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa. Originally envisioned decades ago, the site has remained inactive despite the DRC government’s assurances that development is ongoing. Criticism from various stakeholders highlights delays, governance issues, and environmental risks associated with the mega-dam. Recent setbacks include the withdrawal of the Chinese state-owned Three Gorges Corporation, which has ended its backing due to frustrations with DRC President Félix Tshisekedi's management of the initiative. The estimated cost of the Grand Inga is staggering, reportedly reaching $80 billion in one of Africa's poorest nations. Although discussions around the project have ramped up, lack of funding and investor confidence persists. The World Bank has re-entered talks after withdrawing support in 2016 but its past concerns about the project's feasibility remain relevant. Despite the DRC's potential as a leader in hydropower, delays in construction since the original target date of 2018 highlight deeper systemic issues within the country. Although the DRC government has indicated plans for significant energy production by adding additional dams to the Congo River, the benefits of the Grand Inga may not fully reach local communities, with claims that much of the energy has been earmarked for export to countries like South Africa. Environmental and social concerns add another layer of complexity, with risks of displacing local populations and affecting biodiversity in the region. Activists argue that the project may primarily serve foreign interests rather than solving the energy crisis for Congolese citizens. As discussions continue, the future of the Grand Inga remains uncertain, leaving millions in Africa still waiting for reliable access to electricity.
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M23 Rebels Capture Goma, Escalating Humanitarian Crisis in Eastern Congo

The M23 rebel group has reportedly seized the city of Goma in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), marking a significant escalation in a conflict that has already displaced millions. Residents and journalists have reported gunfire and explosions, while unverified social media footage shows rebels entering the city on foot. The M23 claims to have "liberated" Goma, a claim the Congolese government strongly disputes. Goma, home to approximately one million people, has long been a refuge for those displaced by conflict. Approximately 400,000 individuals have fled their homes in recent weeks due to escalating fighting between M23 rebels and the Congolese army. Many of these displaced persons have found shelter in Goma's overcrowded refugee camps, bringing the total number of displaced individuals in eastern Congo to several million. The M23, which has emerged as the strongest of numerous rebel groups in the region, has been reported to receive support from neighboring Rwanda, including weapons and personnel. Current estimates suggest that between 3,000 to 4,000 Rwandan soldiers may be on the ground in DRC. The M23's recent offensive has allowed it to rapidly advance, sparking renewed concern over the potential regional implications of this conflict. In response to the deteriorating situation, several international bodies, including the United Nations and the European Union, have condemned Rwanda's military involvement in DRC, labeling it a clear violation of international law. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for Rwanda to cease its support for M23 and withdraw its forces from Congolese territory. As fighting continues, the humanitarian situation in Goma remains dire, with reports of looting and power outages. Local residents are living in fear, with many choosing to stay indoors to avoid stray bullets amid the chaos. The conflict, which has roots dating back to the Rwandan Genocide, threatens to escalate into a wider regional war if not addressed.
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Tensions Escalate as Rwanda Mobilizes Troops for Possible Invasion of Goma

Large numbers of Rwandan troops are reportedly crossing the border into the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to support an offensive by the M23 rebel group aimed at seizing the regional capital, Goma. Intelligence sources indicate that the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) has increased troop presence near Goma in anticipation of a significant military engagement before an emergency UN Security Council meeting is set to take place on Sunday. Fierce clashes have already been reported on the outskirts of Goma, with at least 13 UN peacekeepers killed in the fighting, which involves both M23 rebels and the Congolese army. Civilians in Goma are facing dire conditions, with water and power shortages reported amid ongoing military confrontations that have moved considerably closer to the city limits. In response to the escalating crisis, the DRC has recalled its diplomats from Rwanda and demanded the cessation of diplomatic activities in its capital, Kinshasa, within 48 hours. International response has been varied, with critics calling for stronger action against Rwanda's alleged support of the M23 militia. The European Union has urged Rwanda to cease all backing for the rebel group, although the Rwandan government has denied such claims. Observers fear that Rwanda’s intentions may extend beyond Goma, potentially targeting other cities in the region, raising concerns about further destabilization in the mineral-rich eastern DRC.
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Major General Killed as M23 Rebels Advance Towards Goma, DRC

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is facing escalating violence as M23 rebels close in on the city of Goma. Major General Peter Cirimwami Nkuba, the military governor of North Kivu province, was killed on Thursday after being shot near the frontline during the ongoing clashes. His death has raised concerns among government officials and UN sources regarding the stability of the region. Over the past two weeks, the M23 group has gained significant territory, causing more than 178,000 individuals to flee their homes. Reports indicate that fighting has intensified on the outskirts of Goma, prompting the UK, US, and France to warn their citizens to evacuate the area. The United Nations peacekeepers have also engaged in fierce battles against M23 forces. The situation remains dire, with numerous shelling incidents reported and casualties rising among civilians. Residents have begun fleeing towards Goma, utilizing boats to escape the violence, carrying whatever belongings they can. Testimonies from those who have fled describe horrific scenes of destruction and loss. The M23 is one of many armed groups operating in eastern DRC, alleging support from neighboring Rwanda, a claim that Rwanda has historically denied. The conflict contributes to one of the world's largest humanitarian crises, with millions affected over the years. UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed alarm over the situation, calling for an immediate ceasefire and urging all parties involved to respect the DRC's sovereignty.
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Rebel Attack Claims Life of DR Congo Governor Amid Escalating Conflict

In a significant escalation of conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), rebels from the Rwanda-backed M23 group have killed Major General Peter Cirimwami, the military governor of North Kivu, during a frontline visit. The military confirmed on Friday that Cirimwami succumbed to injuries sustained in the attack on Thursday. Following this incident, fighting between the M23 and the DRC army has intensified, with M23 fighters making territorial gains. Since the start of 2023, over 400,000 residents have fled their homes, primarily towards the city of Goma, which is currently threatened by the advancing M23 troops. The rebels have reportedly captured several towns, including Masisi and Minova, leaving a trail of destruction that has resulted in more than 200 civilian deaths. Hospitals in Goma are overwhelmed with casualties, and humanitarian organizations warn of severe risks to civilians as both sides engage in brutal combat. In response to the deteriorating situation, Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi returned from the World Economic Forum in Davos to hold urgent security meetings and instructed the army to repel the M23 rebels and protect Goma. The loss of Goma, a city of over a million people near the Rwandan border, would represent a major strategic victory for the M23, which briefly controlled the city during a previous rebellion in 2012. Residents, including those in affected towns like Sake, are fleeing with what little they can carry. The humanitarian crisis is exacerbating as roads to Goma are blocked, raising concerns about food shortages. International governments, including the United States, United Kingdom, and France, have advised their citizens to evacuate Goma as fighting continues. As the conflict escalates, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for respect for the sovereignty of the DRC and an end to support for armed groups, warning that the crisis has the potential to ignite a broader regional conflict.
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Major General Killed as M23 Rebels Advance on Goma, 178,000 Displaced

In a significant escalation of conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Major General Peter Cirimwami Nkuba, the military governor of North Kivu province, was killed during a confrontation with the M23 rebel group. His death occurred near the frontline on Thursday while he was visiting troops in Kasangezi, located about eight miles from the provincial capital, Goma. The M23, which is believed to have over 8,000 fighters and is supported by Rwanda, has made rapid territorial gains, causing extensive panic among the local population. In just the past two weeks, over 178,000 people have been displaced as clashes continue, with the rebels capturing critical towns such as Minova and Sake, both strategically located near Goma. Civilians are facing dire consequences as the conflict intensifies. Reports of bomb blasts have emerged from Goma's outskirts, attracting thousands of displaced individuals who fled the violence by various means, including boats across Lake Kivu. Many evaders, like Neema Matondo, share harrowing experiences of losing friends and family amidst the chaos. The United Nations has described the situation as critical, with peacekeeping forces engaged in “intense” fighting against M23. The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, expressed alarm over the advancing rebels, emphasizing the need for an immediate ceasefire and respect for the DRC's sovereignty. Decades of conflict have resulted in one of the world's largest humanitarian crises in the region, with millions killed and displaced since 1998. As the situation remains precarious, the international community continues to watch closely for developments.
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Fleeing Violence: Over 178,000 Displaced as M23 Rebels Advance on Goma

The United Nations has raised alarms about the escalating conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where the M23 rebel group is making significant advances towards Goma, the region's largest city. In a statement issued by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, it was reported that more than 178,000 people have been displaced as fighting intensifies between M23 and the Congolese armed forces. Recent weeks have seen M23 capture key locations, including the towns of Minova and Sake, which are vital trade hubs near Goma. The rebel group's offensive has resulted in an increasing number of civilian casualties and injuries, with reports of heavy shelling and explosions prompting mass evacuations. Survivors recount harrowing experiences, with some fleeing by boat across Lake Kivu, packed with belongings and family members seeking safety. Decades of conflict in the DRC have led to one of the world's largest humanitarian crises, with over 6 million deaths and more than 7 million people internally displaced. Accusations against neighboring Rwanda for providing support to M23 have surfaced, although Rwanda has contested these claims. The UN has noted that M23 consists of approximately 8,000 fighters and controls crucial mineral resources, further complicating an already volatile situation. Guterres has urged all parties in the conflict to respect DRC's sovereignty and cease support for armed groups, aiming to prevent a further escalation in violence that could destabilize the region.
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China Issues Evacuation Warning as Nationals Flood Risky Gold Mines in Congo

The Chinese embassy in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has issued a stark warning to its citizens regarding the escalating security threats in the eastern regions of the country, particularly South Kivu, known for its rich mineral deposits. Despite these alerts, an increasing number of Chinese nationals continue to flock to these high-risk areas to capitalize on the booming demand for gold and other valuable resources. The embassy has advised its citizens and firms in the region to evacuate or relocate to safer areas, emphasizing the high security risks they face. However, many of those arriving in South Kivu, often under the protection of influential local politicians, are well aware of the precarious situation and are motivated by the area's abundant mineral wealth. The surge in Chinese interest coincides with rising gold prices, which have surpasses $2,600 per ounce due to growing global economic uncertainties. Eric Mikalano, a researcher specializing in natural resource governance, notes that this influx is indicative of a calculated risk-reward strategy employed by Chinese enterprises. Despite legal ramifications, including the recent sentencing of three Chinese nationals for illegal mining and money laundering, many continue to engage in illicit activities, buoyed by local government complicity. Reports highlight the increasing danger for Chinese nationals, which includes a spate of kidnappings targeting them due to their association with financial assets. As the situation unfolds, authorities in both China and the DRC face challenges in balancing economic interests with the safety of their citizens.
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Congo Takes Legal Action Against Apple Over Conflict Minerals

The Democratic Republic of Congo has filed criminal complaints against Apple subsidiaries in France and Belgium, alleging the use of conflict minerals in their supply chain. This accusation comes from lawyers representing the Congolese government, who state that these minerals, including tin, tantalum, and tungsten, are essential in manufacturing electronics such as computers and smartphones. Apple has strongly denied these allegations, asserting that it has implemented policies requiring its suppliers to refrain from sourcing minerals from the DRC and neighboring Rwanda, which are associated with severe human rights abuses. These abuses allegedly include violence, mass rapes, and looting orchestrated by armed groups operating artisanal mines. The outcome of this legal action could have significant implications for Apple's operations in Europe and its procurement practices, given the critical nature of these materials in the technology sector.
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Chinese Nationals Arrested with Gold Bars and Cash in DR Congo

Three Chinese nationals have been detained in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) after authorities discovered they were transporting 12 gold bars and $800,000 in cash concealed in their vehicle. The arrest occurred in the Walungu area, near the Rwandan border, following a confidential operation carried out based on a tip-off. Jean Jacques Purusi, the governor of South Kivu province, stated that the mission was kept under wraps due to a recent incident where another group of Chinese nationals accused of operating an illegal gold mine was unexpectedly released. This situation highlights ongoing issues in eastern DRC, which is rich in natural resources, including gold and minerals vital for electronic production. Many mines in the region are controlled by militia groups, contributing to a cycle of violence and instability. Purusi indicated that the gold and cash were found after a thorough search of the suspects' vehicle. The Chinese embassy has yet to comment on the arrests, which come amid escalating conflict in the broader North Kivu region, where armed groups are vying for control over territory and resources. The DRC government is currently taking measures to address the exploitation of its mineral wealth, which has historically been subject to plunder by foreign entities. Last month, the DRC initiated legal action against tech giant Apple, alleging the use of conflict minerals sourced from the region.
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Three Chinese Nationals Arrested with Gold Bars and Cash in DR Congo

Authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo have arrested three Chinese nationals who were found in possession of 12 gold bars and $800,000 in cash. The arrests took place in the South Kivu province, as the gold and money were discovered hidden under the seats of their vehicle during a covert operation launched in response to a tip-off. Jean Jacques Purusi, the governor of South Kivu, reported that the operation had to be conducted discreetly due to previous controversies surrounding the release of other Chinese nationals implicated in illegal mining activities in the region. This area is known for its rich deposits of gold, diamonds, and minerals, which have been significantly exploited by foreign entities, contributing to decades of instability driven by militia dominance over local mines. Purusi expressed concern regarding the connections between some metal dealers and influential figures in Kinshasa, indicating that this network complicates efforts to regulate the mineral sector and fight against illegal mining operations. The recent arrests underscore ongoing challenges faced by the Congolese government in combatting corruption and managing its mineral wealth. These developments come amid escalating violence in the neighboring North Kivu province, where Rwanda-backed rebel groups have gained control over substantial territories.
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Congo Accuses Apple of Conflict Mineral Violations in Europe

The Democratic Republic of Congo has lodged criminal complaints against Apple subsidiaries in France and Belgium, alleging the use of conflict minerals in the company's supply chain. The accusations were made public by lawyers representing the Congolese government. Apple has vehemently denied the claims, asserting that it has instructed its suppliers to avoid using minerals sourced from Congo and Rwanda. The significance of this issue lies in Congo's status as a primary supplier of tin, tantalum, and tungsten—commonly referred to as 3T minerals, which are integral to the production of computers and mobile devices. However, human rights organizations and United Nations experts have highlighted the troubling link between some artisanal mines in the region and armed groups responsible for severe human rights abuses, including violence against civilians and mass atrocities. The complaints against Apple signal ongoing tensions regarding ethical sourcing practices in the technology sector and highlight the need for increased scrutiny and accountability in mineral extraction in conflict-prone areas.
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Democratic Republic of Congo Accuses Apple of Conflict Mineral Violations

The Democratic Republic of Congo has lodged criminal complaints against Apple subsidiaries in France and Belgium for allegedly using conflict minerals from its supply chain. Lawyers representing the Congolese government informed Reuters of the legal action taken against the tech giant. Apple has firmly refuted these allegations, stating that it has made it clear to its suppliers that minerals sourced from Congo or Rwanda, which are implicated in conflicts and human rights abuses, should not be used in its products. The Democratic Republic of Congo is a significant producer of tin, tantalum, and tungsten—collectively known as 3T minerals. These materials play a crucial role in the manufacturing of computers and mobile phones. However, concerns have been raised by U.N. experts and human rights organizations about artisanal mines in the region, which may be controlled by armed groups responsible for committing severe human rights violations, including massacres and mass rapes. The allegations against Apple highlight ongoing issues related to ethical sourcing and corporate responsibility in global supply chains.
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