By Grace Ademulegun
In a broad operation to combat illicit mining activity in four West African nations, Interpol has arrested more than 200 people.
The international police agency said Tuesday, January 14, 2025 that the operation, code-named “Sanu,” took place in Guinea, Senegal, Burkina Faso, and Gambia from June to October of last year.
During the crackdown, extensive environmental damage and the substantial role of transnational criminal networks in the exploitation of the region’s natural resources were discovered.
Authorities confiscated a startling variety of dangerous supplies and machinery connected to illicit mining activities.
Among the materials seized were two big containers of sulphuric acid, 14 cylinders of mercury worth over $100,000, 325 kilograms of active charcoal, 150 kilograms of cyanide, and 20 litres of nitrite acid.
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Ten kilogrammes of cocaine and almost 7,000 explosive devices were also found during the investigation, highlighting the wider criminal ramifications of illicit mining operations.
According to Interpol Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza, “transnational criminal networks exploit mineral resources around the world, harming the environment, hurting national economies, weakening fragile communities, and endangering public health and safety.”
He said the success of the operation demonstrates the efficacy of law enforcement when they collaborate to address these threats.
Seven people were arrested and mining equipment was seized as a result of the operation, which was a notable first in Gambia to target illicit sand mining, even though the main focus was on illegal gold mining.
Another significant discovery of the investigation was the environmental cost of illicit mining, which officials attributed to widespread deforestation, landslides, drought, and flooding.
Interpol’s initiatives highlight the pressing need to address the extensive effects of illegal mining, which range from the exploitation of vulnerable populations to environmental destruction.
Operation Sanu’s accomplishment serves as a reminder of how important international cooperation is in thwarting such dangers.
