The Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC) has dismissed allegations published by Reuters claiming that 500 kilograms of goldworth approximately $70 millionwere looted from a Congolese mine since May 2025.

In a statement released in Goma and signed by Lawrence Kanyuka, Head of Communication for the AFC, the movement described Reuters’ report as “largely inaccurate” and based on a “misunderstanding of the actual situation.”

The clarification detailed that the Twangiza Mining site, along with other operations previously owned by Banro Corporation, was acquired by Bayyin International Investments Ltd in 2018. The company invested heavily in modernizing the Twangiza operations until technical and security challengesincluding rebel attacks and COVID-19 constraintsforced a temporary suspension of activities in May 2025.

 “The suspension announced on May 8, 2025, by CEO Chao Xianfeng was a temporary technical shutdown, not a permanent closure,” the AFC said. “It was meant to ensure safety and prepare for a future resumption of activities under better conditions.”

The statement also refuted specific claims listed in the Reuters report, including the alleged underground transport of minerals, the expulsion of residents, the demolition of churches, and the employment of Rwandan technicians.

AFC emphasized that no underground tunnels exist at Twangiza and that all mining infrastructureprocessing plants, storage sites, and refineriesare built above ground and audited for safety and traceability.

On accusations of forced displacement and church demolitions, the group clarified that any recent destruction in the region resulted from aerial bombings by the Congolese army (FARDC) targeting rebel positions, not from mining or local operations.

Regarding the alleged use of “Rwandan technicians,” the AFC denounced what it called a “campaign of stigmatization,” adding that Twangiza Mining has always employed qualified Congolese, Chinese, and South African professionals following international safety standards.

The organization also denied claims that 150 workers had gone missing, stating that all personnel are accounted for and on paid technical leave.

In its conclusion, the AFC reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability, urging media outlets to verify facts before publication.

 “Reuters’ assertions are inaccurate and reflect a poor understanding of the reality. The temporary halt at Twangiza is a technical and security adjustmentnot a cessation of activities,” the statement concluded.

The AFC reiterated that Twangiza Mining remains under administrative supervision and that all agents have been placed on technical leave pending resumption of operations.

Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC) spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka signs an official statement in Goma on October 27, 2025, denying Reuters’ allegations of gold looting from the Twangiza mine.