![Cheng Chang-Fu, Wan Ling-Wu, and Cheng Hai-Yan, all Chinese citizens arrested in possession of gold bars and $400,000 in cash and found guilty of illegal activities linked to the artisanal mining sector, sit inside the courtroom in Bukavu, South Kivu Province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo](https://i0.wp.com/oneafricanewstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/sddefault.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1)
In a historic verdict, three Chinese nationals, Cheng Chang-Fu, Wan Ling-Wu, and Cheng Hai-Yan have been sentenced to seven years in prison and fined US$600,000 for illegally exploiting mineral resources in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This case marks the first time foreign mineral brokers have been convicted for unauthorised mineral exploitation in the country.
A Groundbreaking Conviction
The defendants were arrested on January 4 in Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, in possession of 10 gold bars and US$400,000 in cash. They were charged with money laundering, illegal purchase and possession of minerals, and other offences. While they pleaded guilty to four of the seven charges, they claimed ignorance of Congolese law.
Also read: Ghanaians Demand Action Against Illegal Mining in Peaceful Protests
The court acquitted them of fraud and illegal mineral extraction due to insufficient evidence but imposed a permanent ban on their return to the DRC once their sentences are served. Lawyers for the defendants have announced plans to appeal the ruling, describing it as unjustified.
A Warning to Illegal Operators
Christian Wanduma, a lawyer representing local communities, hailed the verdict as an “educational trial,” stating that it serves as a wake-up call to foreign operators engaging in unauthorised activities. “This ruling should deter other foreigners who think they can exploit our resources without proper authorisation,” he said.
Context: The Fight Against Illegal Mining
This trial occurs amid a broader crackdown on illegal mineral exploitation in the DRC, particularly in the violence-plagued eastern provinces. In South Kivu alone, authorities identified 547 companies operating without proper authorisation in mid-2024. In response, the regional government suspended all mining activities to address environmental damage and protect wildlife reserves.
![Cheng Chang-Fu, Wan Ling-Wu, and Cheng Hai-Yan, all Chinese citizens arrested in possession of gold bars and $400,000 in cash and found guilty of illegal activities linked to the artisanal mining sector, sit inside the courtroom in Bukavu, South Kivu Province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo](https://i0.wp.com/oneafricanewstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/chinese-sentenced.jpeg?resize=640%2C342&ssl=1)
Chinese companies are heavily involved in mining operations in the region, which is rich in gold, cobalt, copper, and other minerals. However, the region has been marred by decades of violence, with over 120 armed groups competing for control of land and resources. Attacks on mining sites are frequent, and in 2022, a Congolese employee of a Chinese mining company was killed in an armed robbery.
Community Concerns and Broader Implications
Protests erupted in Bukavu recently after Chinese nationals suspected of illegal mining in a separate case were released. Civil society leaders have called for stricter measures to prevent foreign exploitation of Congo’s vast mineral wealth. “Our minerals are being plundered by companies, mostly Chinese-owned, while our people live in extreme poverty with poor infrastructure and limited access to basic services,” said Nene Bintu, a local activist.
![Cheng Chang-Fu, Wan Ling-Wu, and Cheng Hai-Yan, all Chinese citizens arrested in possession of gold bars and $400,000 in cash and found guilty of illegal activities linked to the artisanal mining sector, sit inside the courtroom in Bukavu, South Kivu Province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo](https://i0.wp.com/oneafricanewstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/sddefault-1.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1)
The DRC government has been negotiating better terms on a US$6.2 billion mining contract signed with China in 2008, which authorities say has not delivered sufficient benefits to the country.
A Call for Sustainable Practices
Environmental activists stress the importance of collaboration between authorities, local communities, and legitimate mining companies to ensure sustainable and equitable resource exploitation. “The fight against illegal mineral trafficking is a major challenge for the DRC. It’s crucial to balance economic benefits with environmental protection and social equity,” said activist Elie Mulume.
A New Chapter in Resource Governance
This landmark ruling signals a turning point in Congo’s efforts to regulate its mining sector. It sends a strong message to foreign operators and underscores the government’s commitment to protecting its natural resources. As the DRC continues to combat illegal mining, it aims to secure a more sustainable and prosperous future for its people.
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