3 Chinese Nationals Nabbed with Gold Bars and Nearly $1 Million in Cash

Authorities apprehend three Chinese nationals for possession of gold bars and almost $1 million in cash during a high-profile operation. Investigations ongoing.

Authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have detained three Chinese nationals who were found with 12 gold bars and $800,000 in cash. The items were allegedly hidden beneath their vehicle’s seat.

Jacques Purusi, the governor of South Kivu province, confirmed the arrests and noted that they were carried out discreetly to avoid any interference. This follows a controversial incident involving another group of Chinese nationals who were released after being accused of operating an illegal gold mine in the area.

Governor Purusi revealed that certain individuals engaged in the illicit precious metals trade have established powerful connections within Kinshasa, which has made law enforcement efforts more challenging. He stressed the importance of maintaining secrecy to ensure the success of this recent operation.

Mr. Purusi mentioned that they had been acting on a tip-off, although he did not specify the exact amount of gold seized so far.

He stated that the gold bars and money were discovered only after a thorough search of the vehicle in the Walungu area near Rwanda’s border.

Mr. Purusi expressed his shock to journalists last year upon learning that 17 Chinese nationals, previously arrested for allegedly operating an illegal gold mine, had been released and permitted to return to China.

He stated that this development weakened the initiatives aimed at cleaning up DR Congo’s infamously opaque mineral industry.

According to Reuters, Mr. Purusi stated that they owed $10 million in taxes and fines to the government.