Shooting at Wagner-controlled gold mine results in at least 11 deaths

• At least 11 individuals were killed in a shooting at a Wagner-controlled gold mine.
• The tragic incident occurred on July 16 near Ndassima, Central African Republic.
• Witnesses claim young men were shot while collecting residual gold.
• Serge Pounematchi condemned the violence, highlighting rights violations.
• Wagner has faced numerous accusations of systematic human rights abuses.

Shooting at Wagner-controlled gold mine results in casualties

At least 11 individuals lost their lives following a tragic shooting incident at a gold mine in the Central African Republic, an area controlled by the Russian private military company known as Wagner. Reports indicate that the shooting took place on the night of July 16, near Ndassima, which is located around 450 kilometers east of the capital city, Bangui. Local residents claim that a group of young men from nearby communities, seeking residual gold from the Wagner mine’s site, were shot without warning as they attempted to collect gravel, a report from AР News confirms the deaths.

Community struggles and claims of impunity loom large

Witnesses and humanitarian workers on the scene suggest that the death toll could be higher, with several additional individuals reportedly missing after venturing to the mine in search of gravel. The victims were allegedly forced to enter a restricted mining area before the fatal shooting occurred. Serge Serge Pounematchi, a father mourning his son, spoke out against the violence, stating, “It is a shame that the right to life does not exist,” highlighting the burgeoning concern around human rights in a region known for its instability. Despite the gravity of the situation, no official comments have been made by the Central African Republic authorities, nor have representatives from Wagner or the mine provided any statements.

Wagner’s history and political implications in the region

Wagner’s presence in the Central African Republic dates back to 2017, operating under the guise of Midas Resources, which is said to control the Ndassima gold mine, the only industrial site for gold extraction in the region. This private military company has faced numerous accusations of human rights violations that include torture, kidnappings, and, on several occasions, extrajudicial killings of civilians. Prior incidents involving mass fatalities, like the 65 deaths recorded in 2022 at the Aigbado mine, have raised international alarms, as multiple news outlets and organizations reported on these abhorrent events. Additionally, Wagner’s political influence cannot be overlooked; it has aided President Touadéra, particularly during the recent 2023 referendum that facilitated the constitutional extension of his presidency.

The shooting at the Wagner-controlled gold mine in Central African Republic has highlighted ongoing issues of human rights violations and the perilous conditions faced by local residents. With the death toll standing at least at 11 and fears growing over missing individuals, the community is reeling from the violence. As Wagner’s activities continue to draw scrutiny, the call for accountability remains urgent, especially as this private military company has been implicated in various human rights abuses since its inception in the region.