According to local authorities, armed rebels launched an assault on a Chinese-managed gold mining town in the Central African Republic on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of at least four individuals.
Maxime Balalu, a spokesperson for the local government, informed The Associated Press that the attack in Gaga, a village situated approximately 125 miles (200 kilometers) from the capital city
Balalu mentioned that the death toll could increase, with several victims being individuals employed at the nearby mine.
Additionally, numerous individuals sustained injuries during the attack, he added.
Since 2013, the Central African Republic has been embroiled in conflict, stemming from the ousting of President Francois Bozize by predominantly Muslim rebels, which sparked resistance from mostly Christian militias.
Despite a peace agreement in 2019 that initially reduced hostilities, six of the 14 armed groups involved later withdrew from the accord. The Coalition of Patriots for Change emerged in 2020 following the agreement’s aftermath.
Despite its significant mineral resources, including gold and diamonds, the Central African Republic remains one of the world’s poorest countries.
Rebel factions have operated with impunity across the nation over the past decade, hindering mining exploration efforts by foreign corporations.
The country has seen an increase in Chinese-operated businesses, many of which have encountered security issues.
In a similar incident last year, nine Chinese citizens lost their lives at a different gold mine in the Central African Republic during an attack attributed to the same rebel coalition.
Additionally, in 2020, two Chinese nationals perished when locals revolted against a Chinese-run mine in Sosso Nakombo.
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