The allure of gold has sparked a relentless rush across Cameroon’s East and Adamaoua regions. Here, mining operations proliferate at an alarming rate, often operating beyond the reach of state authority. This uncontrolled extraction facilitates a massive illicit trade, siphoning billions of francs out of the national economy.
Our investigations reveal a sophisticated network diverting these immense sums, primarily towards destinations like Dubai. These criminal enterprises thrive on local complicity, with individuals eager to safeguard their lucrative positions. The scale of this operation highlights a profound challenge for Cameroon, as valuable resources vanish into an underground economy, fueling corruption and depriving the nation of crucial revenue.
