A senior official in Côte d’Ivoire’s Bongouanou Sub-prefecture has dismissed reports that residents clashed with gendarmes during an operation against illegal gold mining in N’Guessankro. Deputy Bernard Diby Kokora said checks with residents, traditional leaders and local security authorities confirmed that no confrontation or protest occurred during the operation. He described reports circulating on social media as false and urged the public to avoid sharing unverified information that could create tension.
Kokora reaffirmed that tackling illegal gold mining remains a priority for the authorities, citing its environmental and social risks. He called on local communities to support security agencies in eliminating the practice. Government operations between 2021 and the first half of 2026 reportedly led to the closure of more than 8,500 illegal mining sites, the referral of 4,474 people, the seizure of 136 kg of gold and the interception of more than 960 million CFA francs.
The denial of the clash reports is an attempt to control the narrative around the fight against illegal mining. The scale of the government’s operations, with over 8,500 sites closed, suggests that the authorities are serious about tackling the problem. The social media reports, if false, could undermine public trust in the government’s efforts.
The winners: the Ivorian government, which is defending its record; and the fight against illegal mining, which continues. The losers: those who spread false information; and the Nigerian government, which must learn from Côte d’Ivoire’s example.
Bottom Line: Côte d’Ivoire denies clashes over illegal mining crackdown. The government is asserting control over the narrative. The question is whether the operation will continue or face resistance.