Congo Rebels Loot $70M in Gold from Twangiza Mine: Impact on the Global Metals Market

Twangiza Mine Seized by Rebels, 500 Kilograms of Gold Looted

Rebels from the M23 militia in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have looted at least 500 kilograms of gold from the Twangiza gold mine. This bullion, valued at $70 million, was taken during the ongoing violence in DRC’s South Kivu province. The attack exacerbates the region’s instability and disrupts global gold supply chains.

The M23 rebels seized the mine in May 2025 after escalating violence in the region. Twangiza Mining, the operating company, claims that some of its employees helped transport the stolen gold. Reports indicate that the rebels smuggled over 50 kilograms of gold in just a few days. Since then, the company has lost more than 100 kilograms of gold per month, along with significant equipment and materials.

Impact of the Looting on Twangiza Mining Operations

The looting has severely disrupted mining operations at Twangiza. The company declared force majeure, suspending its obligations due to the crisis. Twangiza has also lost around $5 million in equipment and materials, making recovery efforts even more challenging.

Additionally, a drone strike on October 15 destroyed the mine’s power infrastructure, further impeding operations. While the responsible party remains unknown, this attack underscores the ongoing volatility in the region. The continued instability threatens to disrupt global gold markets, as DRC plays a key role in the African mining sector.

Geopolitical Tensions and the Role of International Stakeholders

The conflict in eastern DRC has wider geopolitical implications. DRC is a major source of critical minerals like cobalt, copper, and gold, essential for global electronics and green technologies. However, the instability hinders mining activities and disrupts global supply chains.

The M23 group’s activities are part of a larger regional conflict. Rwanda is accused of supporting the militia, adding tension to the DRC-Rwanda relationship. A peace agreement signed in June 2025 aimed to stabilize the region and attract Western investment. However, reports suggest the agreement may have led to illegal trade routes, particularly in tantalum exports.

Complicating matters, the $553 million Lobito Corridor project links Angola’s Atlantic port to DRC’s Kolwezi, a major mining hub. This infrastructure project is viewed as a US-backed alternative to China’s influence in Africa. Critics argue, though, that this benefits foreign investors and regional elites while leaving local Congolese communities to deal with the environmental and human costs.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

The situation in DRC reflects growing volatility in the global metals market, especially concerning gold and other essential minerals. The Twangiza gold theft could lead to short-term supply disruptions, and the ongoing geopolitical tensions between DRC and Rwanda will likely influence future mining operations. As these conflicts evolve, they will impact global metal pricing and supply chains in unpredictable ways.