Guinea: Further violence possible following clashes in Kounsitel, Gaoual Region, Aug. 10

Event

Further violence is possible in Kounsitel, Gaoual region, in the coming days following clashes, Aug. 10 between youth vigilantes and gold diggers; vigilantes accuse the diggers of illegally exploiting gold mines in the area. Dozens of people were reportedly injured; the violence also resulted in damage to local infrastructure.

Officials will likely maintain a heightened security presence in the region in the coming days. Security personnel will likely deploy to the site of any further confrontations. Should violence occur, localized ground and business disruptions are also likely. During periods of unrest, looting and other acts of public violence may occur.

Context

Hundreds of gold miners have moved to the area since the discovery of gold last May. To explore the sites and allow for legal mining, Guinean authorities banned gold panning in the area in June, and police were deployed to secure the sites. However, despite this ban, mining activities have continued, angering local residents.

Advice

Avoid gatherings and large concentrations of people if traveling in Kounsitel. Seek updated information on route and destination security and road conditions before conducting ground movements. Leave the area immediately if crowds form or violence occurs.