Operation Sanu, an INTERPOL initiative in Western Africa from July to October 2024, resulted in the arrest of 200 individuals engaged in illegal mining. Significant seizures included toxic chemicals and illegal drugs, highlighting the operation’s effectiveness in combating environmental damage and health risks associated with illicit mining activities. The operation also targeted illegal sand mining, marking a notable first in the Gambia.
An INTERPOL-led operation, known as Operation Sanu, targeted illegal mining activities across Burkina Faso, Gambia, Guinea, and Senegal, resulting in the arrest of 200 individuals. This initiative, conducted from July to October 2024, united experts from INTERPOL and various national law enforcement agencies to dismantle illegal mining operations and uncover the criminal networks involved in these activities.
The operation successfully seized substantial quantities of materials utilized in illegal mining, including 150 kilograms of cyanide, 325 kilograms of active charcoal, 14 mercury cylinders valued at over USD 100,000, along with other hazardous chemicals. Additionally, law enforcement apprehended 10 kilograms of cocaine and nearly 7,000 explosive devices, illustrating the extensive nature of criminal operations linked to illegal mining.
The health implications of illegal mining were further emphasized by the recovery of opioid pain relief tablets, which local miners frequently use to mitigate the side effects of exposure to toxic chemicals such as mercury and cyanide. These substances pose severe health risks, particularly damaging the human nervous system.
Furthermore, Operation Sanu highlighted the broader environmental impacts of illegal mining in the region, which include deforestation, landslides, and altered river flows that can lead to droughts or floods. The adverse effects on economic stability and community livelihoods underscore the urgent need for effective intervention.
INTERPOL Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza remarked, “Transnational criminal networks exploit mineral resources… harming the environment, hurting national economies…” This statement emphasizes the necessity for collaborative law enforcement efforts to address the multifaceted threats posed by illegal mining.
In a first for combatting illegal sand mining, the operation also addressed this issue in the Gambia, resulting in seven arrests and the confiscation of mining equipment and trucks. Gaining insights into illegal sand mining operations underscores the increasing danger it poses to both the environment and local communities.
Operation Sanu marks a significant step in aiding law enforcement agencies in Western and Central Africa, addressing the complex issues stemming from illegal mining. The program was facilitated by INTERPOL’s Environmental Security Programme and received funding from the United Kingdom’s Home Office.
Operation Sanu’s comprehensive efforts reflect the critical need to tackle illegal mining and its deleterious effects on health, communities, and the environment. Through international collaboration, this operation has successfully proceeded to highlight the dangers posed not only by illegal mining practices but also by associated criminal activities, urging continued vigilance and cooperative endeavors at all levels.
Original Source: www.interpol.int
