Rebels in Congo Generate $300,000 Monthly from Illegal Mining – UN Report

Rebels in Congo Generate $300,000 Monthly from Illegal Mining – UN Report.

The United Nations Security Council was briefed on Monday about the substantial revenue being generated by rebel groups in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), specifically from illegal mining operations. The council was informed about ongoing illicit activities in the tantalum-rich region of Rubaya.

Bintou Keita, head of the UN mission in Congo, reported that the M23 movement, a Tutsi-led rebel group allegedly backed by Rwanda, has imposed a production tax on coltan mining in the area. This illegal tax allows the group to generate an estimated $300,000 per month in revenue from the Rubaya mine. “This is a deeply concerning development and must be stopped,” Keita warned.

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According to Reuters, the M23 rebels seized control of the mine in April following intense clashes. The mine is a major source of tantalum, a precious mineral essential in the production of smartphones and computers. The DRC is the largest global producer of tantalum, with the Rubaya region alone contributing over 15% of the world’s supply.

Keita emphasized that the illegal extraction and smuggling of the DRC’s natural resources are fueling the strength of armed groups. “The criminal laundering of the DRC’s resources supports armed factions, sustains the exploitation of civilians—some of whom are reduced to de-facto slavery—and undermines peace efforts,” she told the Security Council.

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She further explained that rising profits from these illegal mining operations have turned rebel groups into militarized entrepreneurs, boosting their military and financial capabilities. Eastern Congo, where much of the country’s wealth lies, continues to be plagued by violent conflicts between various armed groups. The situation has worsened since the resurgence of the M23 rebellion in March 2022.

Keita urged the international community to impose sanctions on those benefiting from this illicit trade, warning that without decisive action, peace will remain elusive, and the suffering of civilians will persist.

Rebels in Congo Generate $300,000 Monthly from Illegal Mining – UN Report.

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