Ivory Coast is stepping up its fight against illegal gold panning, deploying 300 motorcycles, 30 pickup trucks, 12 inflatable boats, and drones to bolster the capabilities of the GS-LOI (Special Group for Combating Illegal Gold Panning). Established in 2021, this unit is tasked with enhancing mobility to conduct operations both on land and water, day or night, while improving surveillance and mapping of clandestine mining sites.
According to Fidèle Sarassoro, executive secretary of the National Security Council, combating illegal gold panning has become a national security imperative. The government has recently adopted a draft law to amend the Penal Code, significantly toughening penalties for offenders. Violators now face fines ranging from 50 to 100 million West African CFA francs and imprisonment from 2 to 5 years. Penalties can escalate to up to 20 years in prison if a public official is involved.
strengthening legal frameworks against illegal mining
These measures reflect Ivory Coast’s commitment to eradicating illegal gold panning, a practice that poses serious environmental, social, and economic challenges. The new legislation aims to deter individuals and networks exploiting unregulated mining activities, which often operate outside legal frameworks and contribute to insecurity in the region.
The enhanced operational capacity of the GS-LOI, combined with stricter legal repercussions, underscores the government’s resolve to enforce a zero-tolerance policy against illegal gold panning. Authorities are determined to reclaim control over mining activities to safeguard national resources and public safety.
