Congo arrests 300 Chinese nationals over illegal mining as China leads US in Africa’s copper race

Authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo have arrested approximately 300 Chinese nationals over alleged illegal mining activities, despite China’s growing dominance in Africa’s critical minerals sector.

According to Business Insider Africa, security forces and immigration officials conducted the operation in Kolwezi, a major copper-mining hub.

The suspects were detained over “their alleged involvement in illegal mining on concessions belonging to other companies”.

Several detainees were subsequently released following diplomatic intervention by the Chinese embassy in Kinshasa.

Meanwhile, China has surpassed the United States and other Western competitors in securing Africa’s critical mineral resources.

Beijing reportedly controls over half of global critical minerals production and approximately 87 per cent of processing and refining capacity.

Over two decades, China invested approximately $24 billion in mineral-related loans and credit across Africa.

In Congo, 24 of the country’s 33 mineral-exporting companies are Chinese-owned, highlighting Beijing’s extensive influence in the region’s mining industry.