Beijing: China has warned its citizens working in the gold mining sector of the Central African Republic that they face serious risks of exploitation, violence and forced labour. The Chinese embassy in Bangui issued the alert after receiving increasing reports of Chinese nationals being trapped in abusive working conditions or becoming victims of attacks linked to criminal networks and armed groups.
According to the embassy, some Chinese workers have had their identity documents seized by employers or middlemen, leaving them unable to leave remote mining sites. Others have reportedly been lured by false job promises, only to find themselves working long hours under threat or without proper pay. Officials described these situations as people falling into roles that resemble mining slaves.
The warning also noted that Chinese workers have been targeted in deadly attacks, kidnappings and extortion attempts in mining regions where state authority is weak. Illegal mining operations, scams and disputes with armed groups have added to the danger.
The alert comes as more Chinese citizens seek work abroad amid a slowing domestic economy, with some turning to gold mining in central Africa in search of income. But the Central African Republic remains one of the most unstable countries in the region, with strong rebel presence outside the capital and limited regulation in its mining zones. The country has rich deposits of gold and diamonds, but insecurity and weak oversight make the sector especially unsafe for foreign workers.
The embassy did not say how many Chinese nationals are currently involved in gold mining within the country, but urged anyone considering travel for mining work to avoid high risk areas and verify the legitimacy of recruiters. It also asked Chinese citizens already in the Central African Republic to strengthen security measures and contact the embassy immediately if they face threats or illegal detention.
The situation highlights the wider risks faced by foreign workers in unregulated mining regions across Africa, where criminal groups often operate alongside informal mining networks. Chinese authorities said they will continue monitoring conditions and will assist citizens who request help.