Côte d’Ivoire cracks down on illegal gold mining with over 8,500 sites dismantled

During a pivotal security meeting at the Presidential Palace, President Alassane Ouattara reviewed progress in combating illegal gold mining in Côte d’Ivoire. The National Security Council (NSC) highlighted the remarkable achievements of the Special Group for Combating Illegal Gold Mining (GS-LOI), established in 2021, which has dismantled more than 8,500 illegal mining sites nationwide over the past five years.

Since its inception, the GS-LOI has enforced operations leading to the removal of over 4,474 individuals involved in illicit activities, with 65% of them being foreign nationals. Authorities have also seized more than 960 million FCFA in cash and approximately 136 kilograms of gold. Additionally, numerous machines and tools used in unauthorized mining were confiscated and destroyed.

Despite these strides, the NSC acknowledged that illegal gold panning persists and even spreads across several regions. The council emphasized that this practice continues to pose severe threats to the environment, national security, natural resources, and the country’s economic stability.

In response, President Ouattara directed Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé to implement stricter measures to curb the issue. Key actions include strengthening the accountability of administrative, traditional, and customary authorities, as well as defense and security forces. Local security committees and civil-military units under prefects’ supervision will play a pivotal role in these efforts.

The government also plans to enhance collaboration with diplomatic missions from the countries of origin of foreign illegal miners. This cooperation aims to boost awareness campaigns and streamline the repatriation of those involved.

The NSC underscored the urgency of rigorously enforcing legal penalties against all individuals or entities engaged in illegal mining. The Prime Minister has been tasked with presenting a proposal to the Council of Ministers to reinforce the national framework for combating this scourge.

To bolster these initiatives, the operational capacities of the GS-LOI and associated defense and security units will be significantly expanded. These measures reflect the government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Côte d’Ivoire’s natural heritage, protecting the environment, and ensuring sustainable economic growth.