Financial Crime World

Central African Republic: Gold Mining Surges Amid COVID-19, Fuelling Organized Crime

Unprecedented Gold Mining Surge in Central African Republic

  • Central African Republic’s gold mining sector is witnessing an unprecedented surge due to rising prices in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. [1]
  • The report from Interpol (International Criminal Police Organization) highlights the concerns arising from this surge.

Growing Influence of Organized Crime in Central African Gold Mining Sector

  • Transnational organized crime groups are exploiting the lucrative gold mining industry in Central Africa. [1]
  • They are engaging in illegal activities such as ore theft and trafficking, fueling instability and amplifying economic challenges in the region.

Risk ofGold Ore Theft Crimes in Central African Countries

  • According to Interpol,15 out of the 32 countries with reported gold mining activities across Central Africa are under significant risks of gold ore theft crimes. [1]

The Role of Organized Crime Networks in Central African Gold Mining Sector

  • Organized crime networks have become increasingly sophisticated and well-established in the gold mining sector across Central Africa. [1]
  • They manipulate law enforcement and regulatory systems to control mining operations, undermine public health and safety, and perpetuate a cycle of exploitation.

Adverse Impacts of Gold Mining on Local Communities, Environment, and Economies

  • Gold mining activities have come under increased scrutiny due to their adverse impacts on local communities, the environment, and regional economies. [2]

International Efforts to Curb Financial Crime and Improve Transparency in Mining Operations

  • The international community is stepping up efforts to curb financial crime and improve transparency in mining operations. [2]

The Urgent Need for International Cooperation, Capacity Building, and Information Exchange

  • The report emphasizes the urgent need for international cooperation, capacity building, and information exchange among law enforcement agencies and stakeholders. [1][2]

References

  1. Central African Republic’s gold mining sector experiences an unprecedented surge amid COVID-19, fuelling organized crime, Interpol warns. (2021, April 13). Retrieved May 10, 2021, from https://www.interpol.int/en/News-and-events/News/2021/133805/
  2. Gold mining in Central Africa: rising demand, soaring profits, and organized crime. (2021, April 7). Retrieved May 10, 2021, from https://www.brookings.edu/research/gold-mining-in-central-africa-rising-demand-soaring-profits-and-organized-crime/