Shooting at Wagner-Controlled Gold Mine Leaves 11 Dead in Central African Republic
- At least 11 people were killed in a shooting at a Wagner gold mine in Central African Republic.
- The shooting occurred overnight on July 16 near Ndassima village.
- Victims were reportedly shot while searching for gold in restricted areas.
- Families are mourning and expressing outrage over the lack of accountability.
- Wagner has been accused of numerous human rights abuses since its start in 2017.
Tragic Shooting Claims Lives at Wagner-Controlled Mine
A tragic incident has unfolded at a gold mine in the Central African Republic, which is managed by the notorious Russian private military contractor, Wagner. Reports from local residents indicate that at least 11 young men were killed during the shooting that took place. This chaotic scene erupted overnight on July 16, near the village of Ndassima, located about 450 kilometers east of the capital city, Bangui. Witnesses claim that a group of these men ventured into the mine—seeking residual gold when the unthinkable happened: they were shot dead on the spot, with authorities yet to respond effectively. As more details emerge, the gravity of the situation becomes starkly apparent, shedding light on the perilous conditions surrounding not only the mine itself but also the very lives of those who labor under its shadow.
Local Residents Demand Accountability Following Deaths
Humanitarian workers and witnesses have recounted the harrowing details of that night, asserting that the victims were likely coerced into searching for gold within restricted zones at the mine, branded dangerous and off-limits. In an alarming twist, there are reports of additional missing persons who, like their deceased counterparts, had ventured to the site in the dead of night seeking gravel. One grieving father, Serge Serge Pounematchi, publicly lamented the loss of his son, denouncing the pervasive culture of impunity that surrounds such incidents. “It is a shame that the right to life does not exist,” Pounematchi stated, conveying the frustrations felt by many in a community rife with fear and uncertainty. With authorities yet to comment publicly, there is a growing urgency for accountability and justice in this distressing affair.
Wagner’s Troubling Record Raises Concerns for the Future
Wagner’s operation in the Central African Republic dates back to 2017, disguising itself under the name of Midas Resources, which oversees Ndassima—the only industrial gold mine in the country. The group has a long history of human rights violations, including widespread extrajudicial killings, kidnappings, and torture of local civilians. Such violent incidents are not new; just last year, over 65 deaths were reported at the Aigbado mine, according to multiple credible sources including UNDP and RFE/RL. Beyond its economic undertakings, Wagner has also played a political role in the region, backing President Faustin-Archange Touadéra and aiding him during the controversial referendum of 2023. This raises pressing questions about the stability of power and rights in a nation struggling against the backdrop of militarization.
The devastating shooting at the Wagner-controlled gold mine in Central African Republic has left at least eleven dead, with further implications for local security and governance. The incident underscores the alarming human rights abuses associated with Wagner’s operations, further complicating the dynamics of power in the region. These events call for a serious reassessment of not only the activities of such private military companies but also the overall safety and human rights conditions in the Central African Republic.
