Operation Sanu targeted illegal mining in Burkina Faso, Gambia, Guinea, and Senegal, resulting in 200 arrests and major chemical seizures. It highlighted the human toll of illegal mining through opioid seizures and illustrated the broader environmental damage, while also addressing illegal sand mining in the Gambia. This effort underscores the collaboration needed to tackle complex challenges associated with illegal mining activities.
LYON, France – A recent operation aimed at combating illegal mining across Burkina Faso, the Gambia, Guinea, and Senegal has resulted in the arrest of 200 individuals. Operation Sanu, which took place from July to October 2024, engaged INTERPOL experts alongside national law enforcement agencies to uncover and dismantle criminal schemes involved in illegal mining activities in remote locations within these countries.
The collaboration resulted in significant seizures, including 150 kilograms of cyanide, 325 kilograms of activated charcoal, and 14 cylinders of mercury valued over USD 100,000. Additionally, the operation confiscated 20 liters of nitrite acid, two 57-liter containers of sulfuric acid, 10 kilograms of cocaine, and nearly 7,000 explosive devices. This operation underscored the dangers linked to illegal mining, with large quantities of opioid pain relief tablets found, reflecting the physical toll these miners face due to the use of toxic chemicals like mercury and cyanide.
Furthermore, this initiative provided INTERPOL and involved law enforcement officers with valuable insights into the broader adverse environmental impacts of illegal mining in the region, including deforestation, landslides, and alterations to river flows which may result in droughts or floods. The operation also highlighted the significant threats posed to local economies and communities by these illicit activities.
INTERPOL Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza stated, “Transnational criminal networks exploit mineral resources around the world, harming the environment, hurting national economies, weakening fragile communities, and endangering public health and safety. The operation’s success highlights the effectiveness of law enforcement when they join forces to tackle these threats.”
While the primary focus was on illegal gold mining, the operation also addressed illegal sand mining in the Gambia, with law enforcement executing raids in several Kombo coastal areas, leading to seven arrests and the confiscation of mining equipment and trucks loaded with illicit sand. This represented a significant first step for the Gambia in combatting illegal sand mining, which has escalated to alarming levels and poses substantial risks to the environment and local livelihoods.
Operation Sanu is part of a pilot initiative intended to aid law enforcement agencies in addressing the intricate challenges stemming from illegal mining operations in Western and Central Africa. Funded by the United Kingdom’s Home Office, this operation was orchestrated under the auspices of INTERPOL’s Environmental Security Programme.
In conclusion, Operation Sanu signifies a crucial effort in addressing the multifaceted issues tied to illegal mining in Western and Central Africa, mobilizing international cooperation against transnational crime. The operation underscores the environmental and health repercussions of such illicit activities on local communities, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and collaboration to mitigate these impacts.
Original Source: www.interpol.int
