Mauritania Intensifies Warnings Against Illegal Cross-Border Gold Mining

Authorities Urge Miners to Respect National Borders

Mauritanian authorities have issued renewed warnings to artisanal gold miners regarding unauthorized cross-border activities into neighboring Morocco. The government emphasizes strict compliance with national boundaries amid growing security and diplomatic concerns.

Regional Governor’s Stern Warning

During an official visit to Bir Moghrein in the Tiris Zemmour region, Governor Tayyib Ould Mohamed Mahmoud delivered a firm message to prospectors: “Miners must respect national borders and comply with laws, customs, and bilateral agreements with neighboring countries.” His statement comes in response to increasing incidents of border violations.

Security and Diplomatic Risks

Unauthorized mining operations not only endanger workers’ lives but also risk straining Mauritania’s relations with Morocco and Algeria. Mohamed Mahmoud Ould Al-Hassan, President of the Mauritanian Miners’ Union, condemned these actions as “reckless and illegal”, warning they damage the country’s international reputation.

Root Causes of Border Violations

Union leaders identify several contributing factors:

• Lack of geographical awareness among unskilled workers
• Absence of proper navigation equipment
• Exploitation by investors funding dangerous expeditions
• High youth unemployment driving informal mining
• Controversial religious rulings questioning border legitimacy

Criticism of Current Measures

Ould Al-Hassan criticized existing government efforts as inadequate, citing:

• Insufficient deterrent penalties
• Lacking border security infrastructure
• Absence of regular military patrols

Call for Comprehensive Strategy

The union leader advocated for a coordinated approach involving:

• Stronger administrative-military cooperation
• Direct engagement with mining unions
• Firm enforcement against violators
• Trilateral cooperation with Morocco and Algeria

Emerging Security Threats

The mining sector faces growing dangers including:

• Armed gangs targeting miners
• Increasing foreign national involvement
• Potential military responses from neighboring countries

Persistent Challenges

Despite warnings, some miners continue entering Moroccan-controlled Western Sahara buffer zones, risking potential armed responses from Moroccan forces who have previously used drones against border violators.

This article summarizes an original report. For complete details, please refer to the source article.