Three Chinese citizens have been sentenced to seven years in prison for illegal mining activities in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The court in Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, found the individuals guilty of illegally purchasing and possessing minerals.
In addition to their prison sentences, they were fined $600,000 for money laundering and illegal residence in the country.
This conviction follows the arrest of 17 Chinese citizens in December 2024 for illegal mining activities in the Walungu territory of South Kivu.
Fifteen of these individuals were subsequently extradited back to China.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is rich in natural resources, including gold, diamonds, and coltan, which is used in the production of electronic devices.
However, illegal mining activities are widespread in the country, often contributing to environmental degradation and fueling armed conflict.