Côte d’Ivoire has launched a six-month campaign to dismantle illegal gold-mining sites, citing environmental damage, public-health risks and growing security concerns.
The operation follows a decision by the National Security Council directing regional authorities to eliminate clandestine mining activities through tighter surveillance, faster interventions and stronger coordination among security forces, according to RFI.
On September 30, authorities supplied the Special Group for Combating Illegal Gold Mining, known as GS-LOI, with 300 motorcycles, 30 pickup trucks, 12 inflatable boats and drones.
The equipment is intended to improve the unit’s ability to monitor mining sites and waterways, including operations conducted at night and in remote areas. The GS-LOI was established in 2021.
Fidele Sarassoro, executive secretary of the National Security Council, described the campaign as a national-security priority. Authorities have also proposed amendments to the penal code that would increase punishments for illegal mining and related offences.
Under the proposed legislation, offenders could face fines of about $87,000-$174,000, and prison sentences of up to five years. Sentences could rise to 20 years when a public official is involved. The bill would also target financiers, sponsors, buyers of illegally mined gold and owners of illicit mining sites.
The government’s campaign comes as illegal gold mining continues to affect forests, farmland and water resources. Mercury use and soil degradation have intensified environmental and health concerns, while the activity remains an important source of income in impoverished rural areas.
