Chinese Nationals Arrested with Gold Bars and $800,000 Cash in DR Congo.

Authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have detained three Chinese nationals in the eastern region, found with 12 gold bars and $800,000 in cash, officials have announced. Courtesy image.

Three Chinese nationals were arrested in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) after being caught with 12 gold bars and $800,000 (£650,000) in cash, according to local officials. The arrest occurred in South Kivu province, an area known for its rich mineral deposits, including gold, diamonds, and key minerals used in the production of batteries for mobile phones and electric vehicles.

Jean Jacques Purusi, the governor of South Kivu, confirmed that the gold bars and money were concealed under the seats of the vehicle the suspects were traveling in.

He further explained that the operation leading to their arrest had been kept secret, especially after the recent release of a different group of Chinese nationals who had been accused of operating an illegal gold mine in the region.

The arrest underscores the ongoing concerns about illegal mining and exploitation of the DRC’s vast natural resources. The country’s eastern provinces are notorious for such activities, often linked to foreign groups involved in the illicit extraction and trade of precious minerals. Local authorities are under increasing pressure to curb these illegal operations, which have long been a source of conflict and instability in the region.

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