Shooting at Wagner-Controlled Gold Mine in Central African Republic Kills 11

0
A serene gold mine landscape with rocky terrain and cloudy skies, capturing the essence of mining activities in remote areas.
  • At least 11 people were killed in a shooting at a Wagner-controlled mine in CAR.
  • The incident happened near Ndassima, about 450 kilometers from Bangui.
  • Victims were reportedly searching for gold when they were shot.
  • Serge Serge Pounematchi condemned the impunity surrounding these acts.
  • Wagner has faced numerous accusations of human rights abuses in CAR.

Shooting Incident at Wagner-Controlled Mine

At least 11 people have reportedly been killed in a shooting incident at a gold mine in the Central African Republic (CAR), which falls under the purview of the Russian private military contractor known as Wagner. Eyewitnesses have claimed that this tragic event took place near the village of Ndassima on July 16, approximately 450 kilometers east of Bangui, the nation’s capital. The fatalities primarily involve young individuals from local villages who, in a desperate bid to recover residual gold, ventured into a restricted area within the Wagner-controlled mining site.

Victims and Community Reaction

Details surrounding the incident reveal that these young men were tragically shot while collecting a gravel and sand mixture that ostensibly contained traces of gold. Humanitarian workers and local witnesses assert that the fatalities numbered at least 11, with reports emerging that additional individuals might be missing after attempting to gather gravel at the mine during the night. Serge Serge Pounematchi, the father of one of the deceased, lamented the incident, stating “It is a shame that the right to life does not exist,” underscoring frustrations concerning the impunity surrounding such acts of violence.

Wagner’s Controversial Role in CAR

Wagner’s presence in the Central African Republic has been under scrutiny since their operations began in 2017, operating ostensibly under Midas Resources—the firm overseeing Ndassima, the nation’s only major gold mine. This situation is compounded by ongoing allegations of human rights violations, including abductions and extrajudicial killings. Previously documented incidents involving Wagner have highlighted systemic violence, including over 65 deaths reported in 2022 at the Aigbado mine. In a broader context, the group’s involvement in CAR’s political sphere has also been significant, having supported President Faustin-Archange Touadéra during referendums that have enabled constitutional changes extending his term.

In summary, the recent shooting at the Wagner-controlled gold mine has reignited concerns over the safety of residents and the continuous pattern of violence associated with this group’s operations in the Central African Republic. Local authorities have yet to make any official comments regarding the incident, while community members express fears of possible backlash for speaking out. As Wagner remains unresponsive, questions surrounding accountability and human rights violations continue to loom large.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *