July 15, 2026
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Sur cette photographie prise le 4 avril 2018, des mineurs d'or travaillent sur un site minier dans la ville camerounaise de Betare Oya (illustration).

The untold billions lost to Cameroon’s clandestine gold trade

A persistent gold rush has gripped Cameroon’s East and Adamaoua regions, leading to a proliferation of mining sites. Despite this extensive activity, the state struggles to assert its authority and regulate operations. This unchecked environment facilitates the illicit flow of billions in gold, primarily channeled to Dubai through well-established criminal networks. These operations thrive on local complicity, with individuals eager to maintain their lucrative positions within this clandestine trade.