Pakistan has stepped up security around the China-run Saindak copper and gold mine in Balochistan after insurgent violence disrupted supply routes. The move follows security warnings, although the mine's operator has denied reports that the project could be forced to shut down.

Pak to tighten security around Saindak mine

A $1.6 billion U.S.-backed mining project in Kazakhstan is facing scrutiny after a report claimed businesses linked to Donald Trump Jr., Eric Trump and the Lutnick family stand to benefit. The deal, involving one of the world's largest untapped tungsten deposits, has reignited questions over potential conflicts of interest as the Trump administration considers billions in federal financing for critical minerals projects.

Trump's $1.6B Kazakh deal faces scrutiny over family ties 

Major US-backed mining project faces scrutiny over family ties

The global mining sector is undergoing a massive transformation, driven by a rapid push toward full automation, within the next four years, experts predict that up to half of the Australian industry's operations could be entirely automated.

Mining Industry Enters New Era With Automation And Smart Technology

President Trump’s efforts to revive the US coal industry are having real financial and health consequences for communities across the country.
In parts of Michigan and beyond, ageing coal-fired power plants slated for closure are being kept open under emergency orders, as part of a push to boost coal production and power generation.

Trump Coal Push Raises Costs And Concerns

In the pine-covered mountains known as the Sierra Gorda – one of the most biodiverse stretches of Mexico – a “mercury boom” is underway. Soaring international gold prices are driving up the price of mercury, a toxic metal key in illegal gold mining, to all-time highs.



Mercury Prices Skyrocket to Record High; Poor Miners Suffer Deadly Exposure

Mining in Peru's northern district of Pataz will remain suspended for 30 days after 13 gold mine workers in the area were kidnapped and killed by illegal miners. Watch in for more details!

Mining in Peru's northern district of Pataz suspended for 30 days

Kolmanskop, once a bustling diamond town in southern Namibia, now lies empty, gradually being engulfed by the shifting sands of the Namib. Situated only 15 km east of the harbour town of L&uuml;deritz, Kolmanskop used to be a small railway station in 1908, when the railway between L&uuml;deritz and Keetmanshoop was built.
<h2>Rise of a diamond dream</h2>
The town grew rapidly under the German influence, becoming one of the wealthiest mining hubs at the turn of the 20th century. The country's early diamond boom attracted major foreign investment and boosted national revenues.
This thereby developed infrastructure was unmatched at the time; as from 1911 the town had electric power, luxurious stone houses, a casino, a school, a hospital, an ice factory to produce ice for fridges, a theatre, a ballroom, a sport-hall, a bowling alley, a salt-water swimming pool and much more although less than 400 people lived here.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/monaco-new-york-london-and-more-list-of-worlds-most-luxurious-places-to-live-9005036">Also Read: Monaco, New York, London and more: List of world's most luxurious places to live</a>
<h2>When prosperity sank in the sands</h2>
Natural resource exports drove strong economic optimism through the late 1990s and early 2000s. With minerals flowing steadily, Namibia appeared ready for sustained prosperity and wealth. However, heavy reliance on raw mineral exports laid bare it's deep structural vulnerabilities. As soon as the global commodity prices declined, the economy weakened. 
A lack of diversification and limited planning worsened the downturn, leaving the communities heavily affected. As mining activities started declining, several towns like Kolmanskop were left abandoned. Deserted buildings are now half-buried by shifting dunes, standing as reminders of the once-prosperous era. Tourism has since become the only source of economic activity in areas like these. Today, Namibia faces multiple challenges. Youth unemployment is over 40%, and rural communities suffer from inadequate infrastructure and education opportunities. Economic inequality has widened more than ever, despite earlier growth.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-woman-strips-naked-and-poops-on-her-seat-9005189">Also Read: BIZARRO WORLD: American woman strips naked and poops on her seat</a> Corruption and scandals involving state enterprises and fishing rights have further damaged trust of public. Allegations of mismanagement have deterred foreign investment and delayed crucial reforms that were aimed at reviving the economy beyond mineral exports. 
<h2>&nbsp;Past drives tourism today</h2>
Despite these issues, Kolmanskop continues to attract close to 35,000 tourists every year. Visitors explore abandoned, sand-filled homes, blending natural forces with human history. Namibia&rsquo;s unique landscapes and historical sites remain key drivers of its emerging tourism sector.

The town grew rapidly under the German influence, becoming one of the wealthiest mining hubs at the turn of the 20th century. The country's early diamond boom attracted a major foreign investment and boosted national revenues.

Kolmanskop, once a bustling diamond town in southern Namibia, now lies empty, gradually being engulfed by the shifting sands of the Namib. Situated only 15 km east of the harbour town of Lüderitz, Kolmanskop used to be a small railway station in 1908, when the railway between Lüderitz and Keetmanshoop was built. Rise of a diamond dream The town grew rapidly under the German influence, becoming one of the wealthiest mining hubs at the turn of the 20th century. The country's early diamond boom attracted major foreign investment and boosted national revenues. This thereby developed infrastructure was unmatched at the time; as from 1911 the town had electric power, luxurious stone houses, a casino, a school, a hospital, an ice factory to produce ice for fridges, a theatre, a ballroom, a sport-hall, a bowling alley, a salt-water swimming pool and much more although less than 400 people lived here. Also Read: Monaco, New York, London and more: List of world's most luxurious places to live When prosperity sank in the sands Natural resource exports drove strong economic optimism through the late 1990s and early 2000s. With minerals flowing steadily, Namibia appeared ready for sustained prosperity and wealth. However, heavy reliance on raw mineral exports laid bare it's deep structural vulnerabilities. As soon as the global commodity prices declined, the economy weakened. A lack of diversification and limited planning worsened the downturn, leaving the communities heavily affected. As mining activities started declining, several towns like Kolmanskop were left abandoned. Deserted buildings are now half-buried by shifting dunes, standing as reminders of the once-prosperous era. Tourism has since become the only source of economic activity in areas like these. Today, Namibia faces multiple challenges. Youth unemployment is over 40%, and rural communities suffer from inadequate infrastructure and education opportunities. Economic inequality has widened more than ever, despite earlier growth. Also Read: BIZARRO WORLD: American woman strips naked and poops on her seat Corruption and scandals involving state enterprises and fishing rights have further damaged trust of public. Allegations of mismanagement have deterred foreign investment and delayed crucial reforms that were aimed at reviving the economy beyond mineral exports. Past drives tourism today Despite these issues, Kolmanskop continues to attract close to 35,000 tourists every year. Visitors explore abandoned, sand-filled homes, blending natural forces with human history. Namibia’s unique landscapes and historical sites remain key drivers of its emerging tourism sector.

From riches to ruins! How Namibia’s forgotten 'diamond town' was swallowed by sand

In a fresh attack on the Union government, the Leader of the opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has raised questions on the proposed offshore mining along the coast of Kerala, Gujarat, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, citing its negative impact on marine life and fishermen&rsquo;s livelihoods, and demanded cancellation of tenders inviting private players. He accused the government of not consulting all stakeholders and demanded that rigorous scientific studies be conducted first to assess the environmental and socio-economic impact of offshore mining.
Gandhi raised his objections in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 25, recalling the protests by coastal communities against the manner in which tenders for offshore mining have been floated without a proper assessment of its environmental impact.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8x6zja0-o3v0g79n-kfewisvt">
Lok Sabha LoP and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi writes to PM Narendra Modi The letter reads, "I strongly condemn the central government's decision to permit offshore mining along the coast of Kerala, Gujarat, and Andaman &amp; Nicobar. Our coastal communities have been protesting&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/XwEGdV3WM2">pic.twitter.com/XwEGdV3WM2</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1905935560642019537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2025</a></blockquote>
&ldquo;I write to you to strongly condemn the central government&rsquo;s decision to permit offshore mining along the coast of Kerala, Gujarat, and Andaman &amp; Nicobar,&rdquo; he wrote. &ldquo;Millions of fisherfolk have expressed grave concerns about its impact on their livelihood and way of life... offshore mining will impact the livelihoods of millions and irreversibly damage our diverse marine life. The government must immediately revoke this decision,&rdquo; he said.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-89-acquitted-of-quadruple-murders-after-56-years-gets-15mn-damages-for-agony-8889006" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Man, 89, acquitted of quadruple murders after 56 years, gets $1.5mn damages for agony</a>
Gandhi said studies point to adverse impacts of offshore mining, including threats to marine life, damage to coral reefs, and the depletion of fish stocks.&nbsp; He said protests erupted when the Ministry of Mines invited tenders for the grant of licenses for mining at 13 offshore blocks. Among the 13 blocks are three blocks for mining construction sand off the coast of Kollam, a vital fish breeding habitat, and three blocks for polymetallic nodules off the coast of the Great Nicobar Islands&mdash;a marine biodiversity hotspot, he said.&nbsp; &ldquo;Tenders were floated without any consultation with the stakeholders or an assessment of the long-term socio-economic impact on coastal communities. In fact, the ongoing survey of the Marine Monitoring Lab of the University of Kerala&rsquo;s Department of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries found that offshore mining could have a devastating impact on fish breeding, especially in Kollam,&rdquo; Rahul said, adding that over 11 lakh people rely on fishing in Kerala.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prasad-given-at-religious-places-exempt-from-gst-says-fm-nirmala-sitharaman-8889590">&lsquo;Prasad&rsquo; served at religious places exempt from GST, says FM Nirmala Sitharaman</a> On Great Nicobar, he said it is globally recognised for its diverse ecosystems and is home to several endemic species of wildlife. &ldquo;Any damage due to offshore mining could potentially do irreparable damage. At a juncture where erosion of our coastal ecosystems has worsened the impact of natural calamities like cyclones, it is concerning that the government is wilfully greenlighting activities without a scientific assessment,&rdquo; he said. On March 17, Kerala MP KC Venugopal said in the Lok Sabha that offshore construction and mining will adversely impact the livelihood of the fishing community.&nbsp;
<h2>Is offshore mining is beneficial to economy?</h2>
Union environment minister Bhupender Yadav said in his response in Lok Sabha on March 18 that the government&rsquo;s decision is based on Geological Survey of India&rsquo;s (GSI) findings that several tonnes of construction-grade sand and gravel could be harvested from the offshore regions.
The GSI has identified polymetallic nodules containing iron, manganese, nickel, cobalt and copper, along with rare earth elements beneath the sea. These minerals are critical for infrastructure development, high-tech manufacturing and the green energy transition.&nbsp;
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/myanmars-military-dropped-bombs-3-hours-after-quake-devastation-un-slams-junta-8907065" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Myanmar&rsquo;s military dropped bombs 3 hours after quake devastation; UN slams junta</a>
The demand for critical minerals is going to increase manifolds and India is making all efforts to become a leading player in global critical minerals market. India is also going to launch National Critical Mineral Mission to strengthen supply chains of critical minerals in India.
Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest, and Climate Kirti Vardhan Singh also refuted the charges in his reply in Lok Sabha and said that a consultative process with stakeholders, including state governments, had taken place at various stages, including during the amendment of the Offshore Areas Act. &ldquo;The offshore mining blocks have been carefully selected, ensuring that these protected areas and fishing areas remain unaffected,&rdquo; Singh said.

India News: The GSI has identified polymetallic nodules containing iron, manganese, nickel, cobalt, and copper, along with rare earth elements beneath the sea. These minerals are critical for high-tech manufacturing and the green energy transition.

In a fresh attack on the Union government, the Leader of the opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has raised questions on the proposed offshore mining along the coast of Kerala, Gujarat, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, citing its negative impact on marine life and fishermen’s livelihoods, and demanded cancellation of tenders inviting private players. He accused the government of not consulting all stakeholders and demanded that rigorous scientific studies be conducted first to assess the environmental and socio-economic impact of offshore mining. Gandhi raised his objections in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 25, recalling the protests by coastal communities against the manner in which tenders for offshore mining have been floated without a proper assessment of its environmental impact. Lok Sabha LoP and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi writes to PM Narendra Modi The letter reads, "I strongly condemn the central government's decision to permit offshore mining along the coast of Kerala, Gujarat, and Andaman & Nicobar. Our coastal communities have been protesting… pic.twitter.com/XwEGdV3WM2 — ANI (@ANI) March 29, 2025 “I write to you to strongly condemn the central government’s decision to permit offshore mining along the coast of Kerala, Gujarat, and Andaman & Nicobar,” he wrote. “Millions of fisherfolk have expressed grave concerns about its impact on their livelihood and way of life... offshore mining will impact the livelihoods of millions and irreversibly damage our diverse marine life. The government must immediately revoke this decision,” he said. Also Read | Man, 89, acquitted of quadruple murders after 56 years, gets $1.5mn damages for agony Gandhi said studies point to adverse impacts of offshore mining, including threats to marine life, damage to coral reefs, and the depletion of fish stocks. He said protests erupted when the Ministry of Mines invited tenders for the grant of licenses for mining at 13 offshore blocks. Among the 13 blocks are three blocks for mining construction sand off the coast of Kollam, a vital fish breeding habitat, and three blocks for polymetallic nodules off the coast of the Great Nicobar Islands—a marine biodiversity hotspot, he said. “Tenders were floated without any consultation with the stakeholders or an assessment of the long-term socio-economic impact on coastal communities. In fact, the ongoing survey of the Marine Monitoring Lab of the University of Kerala’s Department of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries found that offshore mining could have a devastating impact on fish breeding, especially in Kollam,” Rahul said, adding that over 11 lakh people rely on fishing in Kerala. Also Read | ‘Prasad’ served at religious places exempt from GST, says FM Nirmala Sitharaman On Great Nicobar, he said it is globally recognised for its diverse ecosystems and is home to several endemic species of wildlife. “Any damage due to offshore mining could potentially do irreparable damage. At a juncture where erosion of our coastal ecosystems has worsened the impact of natural calamities like cyclones, it is concerning that the government is wilfully greenlighting activities without a scientific assessment,” he said. On March 17, Kerala MP KC Venugopal said in the Lok Sabha that offshore construction and mining will adversely impact the livelihood of the fishing community. Is offshore mining is beneficial to economy? Union environment minister Bhupender Yadav said in his response in Lok Sabha on March 18 that the government’s decision is based on Geological Survey of India’s (GSI) findings that several tonnes of construction-grade sand and gravel could be harvested from the offshore regions. The GSI has identified polymetallic nodules containing iron, manganese, nickel, cobalt and copper, along with rare earth elements beneath the sea. These minerals are critical for infrastructure development, high-tech manufacturing and the green energy transition. Also read | Myanmar’s military dropped bombs 3 hours after quake devastation; UN slams junta The demand for critical minerals is going to increase manifolds and India is making all efforts to become a leading player in global critical minerals market. India is also going to launch National Critical Mineral Mission to strengthen supply chains of critical minerals in India. Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest, and Climate Kirti Vardhan Singh also refuted the charges in his reply in Lok Sabha and said that a consultative process with stakeholders, including state governments, had taken place at various stages, including during the amendment of the Offshore Areas Act. “The offshore mining blocks have been carefully selected, ensuring that these protected areas and fishing areas remain unaffected,” Singh said.

Why is Rahul Gandhi opposing offshore mining? Economic benefits vs politics

Some of those who were lucky to survive the horrors of the abandoned gold mines, in South Africa's Stilfontein say few of theirs colleagues resorted to cannibalism due to sheer desperation of hunger.

South Africa's Stilfontein mine survivors turned to cannibalism to survive

A group of illegal miners within a closed mine in the North West province of South Africa have been refused access to basic supplies as part of the government's declared campaign against illicit mining, and the government claims it will not assist them.

South Africa: Illegal Miners In South Africa's Stilfontein

The promise of Argentina's vast lithium reserves, once seen as a cornerstone of the global electric vehicle revolution, is facing unprecedented challenges as mining companies across the country's salt flats dramatically scale back operations amid a devastating market downturn. The crisis, triggered by an 80% collapse in lithium prices since early 2023, has forced companies to implement widespread cost-cutting measures and reconsider their expansion plans in South America's "lithium triangle."

The situation's severity has become increasingly apparent through extensive interviews with industry executives, government officials, and market analysts, revealing a sector grappling with fundamental shifts in the global lithium market. Companies operating in Argentina, the world's fourth-largest lithium producer, are implementing dramatic measures to weather the storm, including staff reductions, suspended exploration projects, and significantly reduced production targets.

Galan Lithium, an Australian company developing a project in the Hombre Muerto basin, exemplifies the industry's predicament. "We were prepared for a rainy day and we found a storm," admits Juan Pablo Vargas de la Vega, the company's managing director. The firm has been forced to reduce its phase one production target by approximately 25%, from 5,400 to 4,000 tons annually.

The market upheaval has created a perfect storm of challenges: oversupply conditions, weaker-than-expected electric vehicle demand, and difficulties securing financing have combined to create significant hurdles for both established producers and emerging players. This environment has sparked increased merger and acquisition activity, as evidenced by mining giant Rio Tinto's recent USD 6.7 billion acquisition of Arcadium Lithium, a deal that will position Rio Tinto as the world's third-largest lithium producer.

Industry analysts anticipate more consolidation ahead, particularly among early-stage projects. "For companies that aren't producing and have resources in Argentina, it's very probable that they'll be receiving offers," notes Federico Gay, a lithium analyst at Benchmark Mineral Intelligence. The current market conditions have made many companies vulnerable to takeover attempts, with valuations of lithium companies globally dropping by 60-70% over the past 18 months.

The impact on Argentina's lithium sector extends beyond immediate operational challenges. CRU Group, a UK-based mining consultancy, has revised its 2027 production forecast for Argentina downward by approximately 10% and no longer expects the country to surpass Chile as the world's second-largest producer by that year. This adjustment reflects the broader industry slowdown, with companies like Argosy Minerals forced to take dramatic steps, including shuttering pilot plants and laying off workers.

Despite these challenges, Argentina's government remains committed to supporting the industry. Flavia Royon, head of a government-sponsored lithium committee, highlights ongoing efforts to attract investment through market-friendly regulations and targeted incentives, including tax breaks and eased capital controls for large projects. These measures have helped maintain momentum for advanced projects from major players like Rio Tinto, Eramet, Posco, and Ganfeng, even as earlier-stage exploration faces significant headwinds.

Looking ahead, industry experts project that while the immediate future remains challenging, a potential supply shortfall could emerge by the decade's end as demand for electric vehicle batteries and energy storage solutions continues to grow. However, price recovery isn't expected before mid-2025, with some analysts suggesting low pricing could persist through early 2026.

For companies like Argosy Minerals, which plans a 12,000-ton per year facility at the Rincon salt flat, the strategy involves careful resource management while awaiting market improvement. "That's where higher lithium prices probably need to provide an incentive for financiers to come out and support companies like us to develop lithium projects," explains Jerko Zuvela, the company's managing director.

The promise of Argentina's vast lithium reserves, once seen as a cornerstone of the global electric vehicle revolution, is facing unprecedented challenges as mining companies across the country's salt flats dramatically scale back operations amid a devastating market downturn.

The promise of Argentina's vast lithium reserves, once seen as a cornerstone of the global electric vehicle revolution, is facing unprecedented challenges as mining companies across the country's salt flats dramatically scale back operations amid a devastating market downturn. The crisis, triggered by an 80% collapse in lithium prices since early 2023, has forced companies to implement widespread cost-cutting measures and reconsider their expansion plans in South America's "lithium triangle." The situation's severity has become increasingly apparent through extensive interviews with industry executives, government officials, and market analysts, revealing a sector grappling with fundamental shifts in the global lithium market. Companies operating in Argentina, the world's fourth-largest lithium producer, are implementing dramatic measures to weather the storm, including staff reductions, suspended exploration projects, and significantly reduced production targets. Galan Lithium, an Australian company developing a project in the Hombre Muerto basin, exemplifies the industry's predicament. "We were prepared for a rainy day and we found a storm," admits Juan Pablo Vargas de la Vega, the company's managing director. The firm has been forced to reduce its phase one production target by approximately 25%, from 5,400 to 4,000 tons annually. The market upheaval has created a perfect storm of challenges: oversupply conditions, weaker-than-expected electric vehicle demand, and difficulties securing financing have combined to create significant hurdles for both established producers and emerging players. This environment has sparked increased merger and acquisition activity, as evidenced by mining giant Rio Tinto's recent USD 6.7 billion acquisition of Arcadium Lithium, a deal that will position Rio Tinto as the world's third-largest lithium producer. Industry analysts anticipate more consolidation ahead, particularly among early-stage projects. "For companies that aren't producing and have resources in Argentina, it's very probable that they'll be receiving offers," notes Federico Gay, a lithium analyst at Benchmark Mineral Intelligence. The current market conditions have made many companies vulnerable to takeover attempts, with valuations of lithium companies globally dropping by 60-70% over the past 18 months. The impact on Argentina's lithium sector extends beyond immediate operational challenges. CRU Group, a UK-based mining consultancy, has revised its 2027 production forecast for Argentina downward by approximately 10% and no longer expects the country to surpass Chile as the world's second-largest producer by that year. This adjustment reflects the broader industry slowdown, with companies like Argosy Minerals forced to take dramatic steps, including shuttering pilot plants and laying off workers. Despite these challenges, Argentina's government remains committed to supporting the industry. Flavia Royon, head of a government-sponsored lithium committee, highlights ongoing efforts to attract investment through market-friendly regulations and targeted incentives, including tax breaks and eased capital controls for large projects. These measures have helped maintain momentum for advanced projects from major players like Rio Tinto, Eramet, Posco, and Ganfeng, even as earlier-stage exploration faces significant headwinds. Looking ahead, industry experts project that while the immediate future remains challenging, a potential supply shortfall could emerge by the decade's end as demand for electric vehicle batteries and energy storage solutions continues to grow. However, price recovery isn't expected before mid-2025, with some analysts suggesting low pricing could persist through early 2026. For companies like Argosy Minerals, which plans a 12,000-ton per year facility at the Rincon salt flat, the strategy involves careful resource management while awaiting market improvement. "That's where higher lithium prices probably need to provide an incentive for financiers to come out and support companies like us to develop lithium projects," explains Jerko Zuvela, the company's managing director.

Global Lithium price crash forces Argentina's mining companies to scale back

Despite China’s 2021 ban on Cryptocurrencies, the country continues to dominate the global Bitcoin mining industry.

China’s Bitcoin Mining Dominance Persists

The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday (May 29) carried out searches at multiple locations in Punjab as part of a narcotics-linked money laundering case.

The raids were conducted at 13 locations, and targeted individuals involved in illegal mining activities with prime accused Jagdish Singh alias Bhola, official sources said.

According to an official source, 13 locations in Rupnagar district are being searched after it was found that 'illegal' mining was being done on a land that was earlier attached by the ED in the Bhola case.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-mp-murder-police-in-kolkata-recover-hair-pieces-of-flesh-from-septic-tank-726570">Bangladesh MP murder: Police in India's Kolkata recover hair, pieces of flesh from septic tank</a>

About Rs 3 crore ($360,000) is cash has been seized till now during the raids, they said.

The money laundering case involves a multi-crore synthetic narcotics racket uncovered in Punjab during 2013-14. The Enforcement Directorate initiated the case based on FIRs filed by the Punjab Police.

The case is commonly known as the Bhola drug case to identify the alleged 'kingpin', wrestler-turned-policeman-turned-'drug mafia' Jagdish Singh alias Bhola.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pune-porche-crash-top-updates-congress-says-mlas-son-involved-teens-blood-sample-thrown-in-dustbin-726580">Pune Porche crash top updates: Congress says MLA's son involved; teen's blood sample thrown in dustbin</a>

Bhola was arrested by the ED in January 2014 and the case is currently in trial before a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in Punjab.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday (May 29) carried out searches at multiple locations in Punjab as part of a narcotics-linked money laundering case. The raids were conducted at 13 locations, and targeted individuals involved in illegal mining activities with prime accused Jagdish Singh alias Bhola, official sources said.

The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday (May 29) carried out searches at multiple locations in Punjab as part of a narcotics-linked money laundering case. The raids were conducted at 13 locations, and targeted individuals involved in illegal mining activities with prime accused Jagdish Singh alias Bhola, official sources said. According to an official source, 13 locations in Rupnagar district are being searched after it was found that 'illegal' mining was being done on a land that was earlier attached by the ED in the Bhola case. Also read: Bangladesh MP murder: Police in India's Kolkata recover hair, pieces of flesh from septic tank About Rs 3 crore ($360,000) is cash has been seized till now during the raids, they said. The money laundering case involves a multi-crore synthetic narcotics racket uncovered in Punjab during 2013-14. The Enforcement Directorate initiated the case based on FIRs filed by the Punjab Police. The case is commonly known as the Bhola drug case to identify the alleged 'kingpin', wrestler-turned-policeman-turned-'drug mafia' Jagdish Singh alias Bhola. Also read: Pune Porche crash top updates: Congress says MLA's son involved; teen's blood sample thrown in dustbin Bhola was arrested by the ED in January 2014 and the case is currently in trial before a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in Punjab. (With inputs from agencies)

ED raids Punjab mining locations in connection to Bhola drugs case

At least 40 people were killed and many others wounded in an attack by gunmen on Zurak Village in Nigeria's North Central Plateau state where clashes between herders and farmers arise. Gravitas tells you more.

Gravitas | Nigeria: Zurak mining community attacked by bandits on Monday evening

Leading miner BHP group has proposed a takeover of Anglo American. The deal, which has valued the smaller miner at 39 billion dollars, would create the world’s top copper producer. Moreover, this could spark the industry’s biggest shakeup in over a decade.

Merger deal to create world’s top copper producer

South Africa's economy narrowly avoided a technical recession in the December quarter. A decrease in rotating power interruptions helped with a recovery in energy-intensive sectors like mining. Gross domestic product rose by 0.1% in the three months through to December.

Mining boom helps South Africa avoid recession

In a surprising find at the Freedom Mine in North Dakota, a shovel operator found a two-metre-long mammoth tusk buried in an old streambed estimated to be between 10,000 to 100,000 years old. The mine typically produces tonnes of lignite coal annually, making this ancient find a rare occurrence.

Experts&nbsp;were amazed at the well-preserved state of the mammoth tusk, considering the heavy equipment used in the mine. Further excavation revealed over 20 bones, potentially making it the most complete mammoth found in North Dakota.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/enormous-15ft-sea-creature-washes-up-on-uk-coast-stunning-beachgoers-677526">Also read |&nbsp;Enormous 15ft sea creature washes up on UK coast, stunning beachgoers</a>

<h2>Insights into the past</h2>

Mammoths, larger than today's elephants, once roamed the Earth. This mammoth discovery provides valuable insights into their history, with the bones likely being from a single animal. Despite fewer bones than a full skeleton, the find is significant.

Also watch |&nbsp;US Elections 2024: DeSantis &amp; Haley seek to be alternative to Donald Trump

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-elections-2024-desantis-haley-seek-to-be-alternative-to-donald-trump-677392/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Weighing over 22.6 kgs, the mammoth tusk is fragile. To prevent damage, paleontologists wrapped it in plastic for controlled dehydration. The bones will remain wrapped for months. The mining company plans to donate the remains for educational purposes.

North Dakota's landscape, near the Rocky Mountains, is a treasure trove for fossils. The state's strategic location and ecological history have preserved remnants of ancient life, making it a fascinating area for paleontologists.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a surprising find at the Freedom Mine in North Dakota, a shovel operator found a two-metre-long mammoth tusk buried in an old streambed estimated to be between 10,000 to 100,000 years old.

In a surprising find at the Freedom Mine in North Dakota, a shovel operator found a two-metre-long mammoth tusk buried in an old streambed estimated to be between 10,000 to 100,000 years old. The mine typically produces tonnes of lignite coal annually, making this ancient find a rare occurrence. Experts were amazed at the well-preserved state of the mammoth tusk, considering the heavy equipment used in the mine. Further excavation revealed over 20 bones, potentially making it the most complete mammoth found in North Dakota. Also read | Enormous 15ft sea creature washes up on UK coast, stunning beachgoers Insights into the past Mammoths, larger than today's elephants, once roamed the Earth. This mammoth discovery provides valuable insights into their history, with the bones likely being from a single animal. Despite fewer bones than a full skeleton, the find is significant. Also watch | US Elections 2024: DeSantis & Haley seek to be alternative to Donald Trump Weighing over 22.6 kgs, the mammoth tusk is fragile. To prevent damage, paleontologists wrapped it in plastic for controlled dehydration. The bones will remain wrapped for months. The mining company plans to donate the remains for educational purposes. North Dakota's landscape, near the Rocky Mountains, is a treasure trove for fossils. The state's strategic location and ecological history have preserved remnants of ancient life, making it a fascinating area for paleontologists. (With inputs from agencies)

US coal miners discover mammoth tusk buried for thousands of years

Kazakhstan held nationwide mourning on Sunday after 45 people died in a blaze at an ArcelorMittal mine, the worst accident in the Central Asian country's post-Soviet history.

The tragedy, which struck at the Kostenko coal mine in the Karaganda region Saturday, came after a series of deadly incidents at ArcelorMittal mines and has prompted the nationalisation of the company's local affiliate.&nbsp;

"As of 3 pm (0900 GMT) the bodies of 42 people were found," Kazakhstan's emergency services said on social media.&nbsp;

<h2>The search for one miner&nbsp;continues</h2>

Later, authorities said the bodies of three others had been found and rescuers were searching for the last miner missing, with little hope of finding him alive.&nbsp;

Rescuers earlier warned that chances of finding the remaining miners alive were "very low", due to the lack of ventilation and the force of Saturday's explosion, which spread over two kilometres (1.2 miles).

The previous deadliest mine accident in post-Soviet Kazakhstan occurred in 2006, killing 41 miners at another ArcelorMittal site. It came just two months after another incident killed five miners.&nbsp;

Anger and disbelief reigned after the disaster&nbsp;in Karaganda, central Kazakhstan.

"Every miner is a hero, because when he goes down, he does not know if he will come back or not," said former miner Sergei Glazkov.&nbsp;

Many welcomed the government's move towards nationalisation, angered by the company's safety record.&nbsp;

Daniar Mustafin, a 42-year-old salesman, said he favoured "full nationalisation without material compensation for the current owners".

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has ordered cooperation with the Luxembourg-based company to be "brought to an end."

In a statement on its Kazakh website, ArcelorMittal said its thoughts were with the families of those who lost loved ones.

"We understand that there is no adequate compensation for their losses, but we will do everything in our power to support them in the coming weeks and months", it said.

"ArcelorMittal has owned these mines in Kazakhstan since 1995. Unfortunately their operation poses a high safety risk due to the complicated geology, which has resulted in a number of deadly accidents over the past two years", it said.

Speaking to victims' relatives at the mine, Tokayev called ArcelorMittal "the worst enterprise in Kazakhstan's history in terms of cooperation with the government".

The Kazakh government and the steel giant announced a preliminary agreement to "transfer ownership of the (local) firm in favour of the Republic of Kazakhstan", Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov stated.

In its statement, ArcelorMittal said that the previous week, "the two parties... signed a preliminary agreement" to transfer ownership of the mine to Kazakhstan.

On Sunday, flags were at half-mast to mark the day of national mourning declared by Tokayev, an AFP correspondent saw.

Since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, about 200 miners have died in Kazakhstan, the vast majority at ArcelorMittal sites.&nbsp;

<h2>&nbsp;'His guardian angel saved him'&nbsp;</h2>

There were 252 people inside the mine when the fire started, ArcelorMittal said.&nbsp;

Outside a hospital in Karaganda, relatives of those who had survived the blast were thanking the heavens. &nbsp;

"His guardian angel saved him. He is alive," said Nikolai Bralin, the brother of an injured miner.&nbsp;

"Two of his ribs were slightly torn apart from the blow and he had surgery to put them back in place," he added.&nbsp;

ArcelorMittal's arrival in Kazakhstan in 1995 was initially seen as a beacon of hope during the economic slump that followed the fall of communism.&nbsp;

But a lack of investment and inadequate safety standards were repeatedly criticised by the authorities, while trade unions called for tighter government control.&nbsp;

ArcelorMittal, led by Indian businessman Lakshmi Mittal, operates some 15 factories and mines in the centre of the former Soviet republic. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Kazakhstan held nationwide mourning on Sunday after 45 people died in a blaze at an ArcelorMittal mine, the worst accident in the Central Asian country's post-Soviet history.

Kazakhstan held nationwide mourning on Sunday after 45 people died in a blaze at an ArcelorMittal mine, the worst accident in the Central Asian country's post-Soviet history. The tragedy, which struck at the Kostenko coal mine in the Karaganda region Saturday, came after a series of deadly incidents at ArcelorMittal mines and has prompted the nationalisation of the company's local affiliate. "As of 3 pm (0900 GMT) the bodies of 42 people were found," Kazakhstan's emergency services said on social media. The search for one miner continues Later, authorities said the bodies of three others had been found and rescuers were searching for the last miner missing, with little hope of finding him alive. Rescuers earlier warned that chances of finding the remaining miners alive were "very low", due to the lack of ventilation and the force of Saturday's explosion, which spread over two kilometres (1.2 miles). The previous deadliest mine accident in post-Soviet Kazakhstan occurred in 2006, killing 41 miners at another ArcelorMittal site. It came just two months after another incident killed five miners. Anger and disbelief reigned after the disaster in Karaganda, central Kazakhstan. "Every miner is a hero, because when he goes down, he does not know if he will come back or not," said former miner Sergei Glazkov. Many welcomed the government's move towards nationalisation, angered by the company's safety record. Daniar Mustafin, a 42-year-old salesman, said he favoured "full nationalisation without material compensation for the current owners". President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has ordered cooperation with the Luxembourg-based company to be "brought to an end." In a statement on its Kazakh website, ArcelorMittal said its thoughts were with the families of those who lost loved ones. "We understand that there is no adequate compensation for their losses, but we will do everything in our power to support them in the coming weeks and months", it said. "ArcelorMittal has owned these mines in Kazakhstan since 1995. Unfortunately their operation poses a high safety risk due to the complicated geology, which has resulted in a number of deadly accidents over the past two years", it said. Speaking to victims' relatives at the mine, Tokayev called ArcelorMittal "the worst enterprise in Kazakhstan's history in terms of cooperation with the government". The Kazakh government and the steel giant announced a preliminary agreement to "transfer ownership of the (local) firm in favour of the Republic of Kazakhstan", Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov stated. In its statement, ArcelorMittal said that the previous week, "the two parties... signed a preliminary agreement" to transfer ownership of the mine to Kazakhstan. On Sunday, flags were at half-mast to mark the day of national mourning declared by Tokayev, an AFP correspondent saw. Since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, about 200 miners have died in Kazakhstan, the vast majority at ArcelorMittal sites. 'His guardian angel saved him' There were 252 people inside the mine when the fire started, ArcelorMittal said. Outside a hospital in Karaganda, relatives of those who had survived the blast were thanking the heavens. "His guardian angel saved him. He is alive," said Nikolai Bralin, the brother of an injured miner. "Two of his ribs were slightly torn apart from the blow and he had surgery to put them back in place," he added. ArcelorMittal's arrival in Kazakhstan in 1995 was initially seen as a beacon of hope during the economic slump that followed the fall of communism. But a lack of investment and inadequate safety standards were repeatedly criticised by the authorities, while trade unions called for tighter government control. ArcelorMittal, led by Indian businessman Lakshmi Mittal, operates some 15 factories and mines in the centre of the former Soviet republic. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Kazakhstan: 45 killed in ArcelorMittal mine disaster

A bus crash in Limpopo province, South Africa has claimed at least 20 lives, news agency AFP reported, citing a local transport official.

Spokesperson for the Department of Transport and Community Safety in Limpopo Vongani Chauke told AFP news agency that the bus had been shuttling staff from the Venetia Diamond Mine, operated by De Beers, when it crashed in the north of the country.

"The bus came into collision with a lorry," Chauke said, and added that the crash took place around 1600 UTC, some 25 kilometers (15 miles) from the mine, near Musina, which is close to the border with Zimbabwe.

Also watch |&nbsp;At least 31 killed after Jade mine landslide in Myanmar

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Details surrounding the cause of the collision are not yet known.

The Venetia mine is the largest diamond mine in the country, accounting for more than 40 percent of South Africa's annual diamond production, and employing more than 4,300 people.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/perus-deadliest-mining-accident-in-more-than-two-decades-claims-27-lives-590039">Peru's deadliest mining accident in more than two decades claims 27 lives</a>

South Africa ranks highly when it comes to road infrastructure on the African continent, however it also has a questionable road safety record.

Each year thousands of people are killed on the country's roads.

South Africa's Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) said in May that 12,436 people were killed on the country's roads between January 2022 and December of the same year.

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A bus crash in Limpopo province, South Africa has claimed at least 20 lives, news agency AFP reported, citing a local transport official. Spokesperson for the Department of Transport and Community Safety in Limpopo Vongani Chauke told AFP news agency that the bus had been shuttling staff from the Venetia Diamond Mine, operated by De Beers, when it crashed in the north of the country.

A bus crash in Limpopo province, South Africa has claimed at least 20 lives, news agency AFP reported, citing a local transport official. Spokesperson for the Department of Transport and Community Safety in Limpopo Vongani Chauke told AFP news agency that the bus had been shuttling staff from the Venetia Diamond Mine, operated by De Beers, when it crashed in the north of the country. "The bus came into collision with a lorry," Chauke said, and added that the crash took place around 1600 UTC, some 25 kilometers (15 miles) from the mine, near Musina, which is close to the border with Zimbabwe. Also watch | At least 31 killed after Jade mine landslide in Myanmar × Details surrounding the cause of the collision are not yet known. The Venetia mine is the largest diamond mine in the country, accounting for more than 40 percent of South Africa's annual diamond production, and employing more than 4,300 people. Also read | Peru's deadliest mining accident in more than two decades claims 27 lives South Africa ranks highly when it comes to road infrastructure on the African continent, however it also has a questionable road safety record. Each year thousands of people are killed on the country's roads. South Africa's Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) said in May that 12,436 people were killed on the country's roads between January 2022 and December of the same year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Africa bus crash kills at least 20 mine staff: Reports

The Taliban government has signed mining contracts worth US$6.5 billion, pegged to one of the biggest deals since it seized power in Afghanistan two years ago.

The mining contracts, seven in total, have been given to local companies, many of which have foreign partners in countries including China, Iran, and Turkey, reports AP news agency.

The mining of iron ore, lead, zinc, and gold will take place in four provinces: Herat, Ghor, Logar, and Takhar.

Logar province is believed to hold the world’s largest copper deposit.

In a statement, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund did not give any details of the investment but said that they would create thousands of jobs and significantly improve the economic situation of the country.

The announcement was made on Thursday as the Taliban marked the second anniversary of the withdrawal of all US-led NATO troops from the country after nearly 20 years of war.

<h2>China's reach deepens&nbsp;</h2>

Shahabuddin Dilawar, the Taliban minister of mines and petroleum said that a Chinese company has been awarded the contract to extract gold in Takhar province. He did not name the company that got the contract, but said that it would get 65 per cent share of the earnings over five years, VOA news outlet reported.

Earlier this year, a Chinese firm signed an oil extraction contract with the Taliban administration. Beijing lately has also shown interest in investing in lithium mining in Afghanistan.

The minister said that the other contracts involving in mining and processing iron ore in Herat province include Turkish, Iranian and British investments.

The Taliban believe that the extraction from this province would earn the government a 13 per cent share over 30 years.

"It will eventually turn Afghanistan into an exporter of iron," he said.

<h2>Cash-strapped Afghanistan&nbsp;</h2>

The cash-strapped South Asian country has been desperately looking for foreign investments as donations from foreign countries, the major source of revenue, completely stopped after the Taliban took power in August 2021.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutan-halves-tourist-fee-to-100-per-night-in-bid-to-boost-economy-629466">Bhutan halves tourist fee to $100 per night in bid to boost economy</a>

The budget of the previous civilian government in Afghanistan was funded by the international community, accounting for about 80 per cent.

ALso read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-government-to-import-1-million-metric-tonnes-of-sugar-to-address-looming-crisis-report-630836">Pakistan government to import 1 million metric tonnes of sugar to address looming crisis: Report</a>

That money, now largely cut off, financed hospitals, schools, factories, and government ministries.

Afghanistan is endowed with vast and untapped mineral resources, and the Taliban administration has been looking to exploit it to fill up the state coffers.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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The Taliban government has signed mining contracts worth US$6.5 billion, pegged to one of the biggest deals since it seized power in Afghanistan two years ago. The mining contracts, seven in total, have been given to local companies, many of which have foreign partners in countries including China, Iran, and Turkey, reports AP news agency.

The Taliban government has signed mining contracts worth US$6.5 billion, pegged to one of the biggest deals since it seized power in Afghanistan two years ago. The mining contracts, seven in total, have been given to local companies, many of which have foreign partners in countries including China, Iran, and Turkey, reports AP news agency. The mining of iron ore, lead, zinc, and gold will take place in four provinces: Herat, Ghor, Logar, and Takhar. Logar province is believed to hold the world’s largest copper deposit. In a statement, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund did not give any details of the investment but said that they would create thousands of jobs and significantly improve the economic situation of the country. The announcement was made on Thursday as the Taliban marked the second anniversary of the withdrawal of all US-led NATO troops from the country after nearly 20 years of war. China's reach deepens Shahabuddin Dilawar, the Taliban minister of mines and petroleum said that a Chinese company has been awarded the contract to extract gold in Takhar province. He did not name the company that got the contract, but said that it would get 65 per cent share of the earnings over five years, VOA news outlet reported. Earlier this year, a Chinese firm signed an oil extraction contract with the Taliban administration. Beijing lately has also shown interest in investing in lithium mining in Afghanistan. The minister said that the other contracts involving in mining and processing iron ore in Herat province include Turkish, Iranian and British investments. The Taliban believe that the extraction from this province would earn the government a 13 per cent share over 30 years. "It will eventually turn Afghanistan into an exporter of iron," he said. Cash-strapped Afghanistan The cash-strapped South Asian country has been desperately looking for foreign investments as donations from foreign countries, the major source of revenue, completely stopped after the Taliban took power in August 2021. Also read | Bhutan halves tourist fee to $100 per night in bid to boost economy The budget of the previous civilian government in Afghanistan was funded by the international community, accounting for about 80 per cent. ALso read | Pakistan government to import 1 million metric tonnes of sugar to address looming crisis: Report That money, now largely cut off, financed hospitals, schools, factories, and government ministries. Afghanistan is endowed with vast and untapped mineral resources, and the Taliban administration has been looking to exploit it to fill up the state coffers. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Taliban dole out $6.5 billion mining contracts to companies having ties with China, Turkey, Iran

A report by AFP citing&nbsp;emergency workers, on Tuesday (August 15), said rescuers have recovered 25 bodies while 14 people remain missing after being swept into a lake after a huge landslide at a jade mine in northern Myanmar. The incident occurred in the remote mountainous town of Hpakant in the country’s Kachin state, home to some of the world’s biggest jade mines.

<h2>What happened?</h2>

According to reports citing rescue workers, the incident took place on Sunday and also comes days after much of the country was swamped by heavy rains and floods. More than 100 rescue workers were looking for survivors, a member of the rescue team, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, told Reuters, on Monday.&nbsp;

The news agency citing the rescue team member also said that eight people who were injured were taken to the hospital on Sunday.&nbsp;"We found 25 dead bodies in total today," a rescue worker told AFP on Tuesday,&nbsp;adding that 14 people were still missing.&nbsp;

Search and rescue efforts&nbsp;will continue Wednesday, as per the report.&nbsp;Rescuers had to reportedly dig&nbsp;through mud to find bodies, while others were floating in water.

Meanwhile, citing witnesses, Tar Lin Maung, a local journalist said the waste heap that collapsed on Sunday was about 150 metres high. “There is no chance that they would survive in this muddy lake,” said Tar Lin Maung, as quoted by Reuters, on Monday.&nbsp;

<h2>Jade mining in Myanmar</h2>

A report by the Associated Press, on Monday, also citing a member of the rescue team, said that while the search and rescue efforts were continuing, some miners had already returned to the scene in the hope of finding jade.

This comes after the mine’s operations were said to have been suspended following the landslide.&nbsp;

Notably, the site of the incident is said to be the centre of Myanmar’s secretive and highly lucrative jade industry, which is mostly unregulated.

Myanmar produces about 90 per cent of the world’s jade, a gem that is highly coveted in neighbouring China.

Dozens die annually, while many low-paid migrant workers continue to risk their lives daily picking through unstable earth and rubble excavated by mining companies to search for small pieces of semi-precious stone.&nbsp;

The site has also witnessed some of Asia’s worst mining disasters. In 2020, at least 170 miners were killed after a landslide at the Hpakant township.

The jade mines are estimated to be worth around $30 billion a year and are said to be an important source of revenue for Myanmar’s military government, which took over the country after a coup.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
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A report by AFP citing emergency workers, on Tuesday (August 15), said rescuers have recovered 25 bodies while 14 people remain missing after being swept into a lake after a huge landslide at a jade mine in northern Myanmar.

A report by AFP citing emergency workers, on Tuesday (August 15), said rescuers have recovered 25 bodies while 14 people remain missing after being swept into a lake after a huge landslide at a jade mine in northern Myanmar. The incident occurred in the remote mountainous town of Hpakant in the country’s Kachin state, home to some of the world’s biggest jade mines. What happened? According to reports citing rescue workers, the incident took place on Sunday and also comes days after much of the country was swamped by heavy rains and floods. More than 100 rescue workers were looking for survivors, a member of the rescue team, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, told Reuters, on Monday. The news agency citing the rescue team member also said that eight people who were injured were taken to the hospital on Sunday. "We found 25 dead bodies in total today," a rescue worker told AFP on Tuesday, adding that 14 people were still missing. Search and rescue efforts will continue Wednesday, as per the report. Rescuers had to reportedly dig through mud to find bodies, while others were floating in water. Meanwhile, citing witnesses, Tar Lin Maung, a local journalist said the waste heap that collapsed on Sunday was about 150 metres high. “There is no chance that they would survive in this muddy lake,” said Tar Lin Maung, as quoted by Reuters, on Monday. Jade mining in Myanmar A report by the Associated Press, on Monday, also citing a member of the rescue team, said that while the search and rescue efforts were continuing, some miners had already returned to the scene in the hope of finding jade. This comes after the mine’s operations were said to have been suspended following the landslide. Notably, the site of the incident is said to be the centre of Myanmar’s secretive and highly lucrative jade industry, which is mostly unregulated. Myanmar produces about 90 per cent of the world’s jade, a gem that is highly coveted in neighbouring China. Dozens die annually, while many low-paid migrant workers continue to risk their lives daily picking through unstable earth and rubble excavated by mining companies to search for small pieces of semi-precious stone. The site has also witnessed some of Asia’s worst mining disasters. In 2020, at least 170 miners were killed after a landslide at the Hpakant township. The jade mines are estimated to be worth around $30 billion a year and are said to be an important source of revenue for Myanmar’s military government, which took over the country after a coup. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Myanmar: At least 25 killed, 14 missing after landslide at jade mine in Hpakant

Norge Mining, a prominent mining company, has announced the discovery of an enormous phosphate rock deposit in southwestern Norway. According to the company, this deposit is estimated to contain up to 70 billion tonnes of the non-renewable resource, making it a game-changer for the global demand for batteries and solar panels up to 100 years, as reported by the Independent.

The site also holds deposits of strategic minerals such as titanium and vanadium, further bolstering its significance.

Phosphate rock, renowned for its high phosphorus concentration, is a vital component in the production of green technologies.

<h2>Why is this a groundbreaking find?</h2>

Despite huge demand, phosphorus&nbsp;availability has been limited, resulting in significant supply challenges. With this groundbreaking find, Norge Mining aims to alleviate these concerns and potentially revolutionise the renewable energy industry.

Previously, Russia held control over the world's largest ultra-pure phosphate rock deposits, raising concerns about the high supply risk associated with these "critical raw materials."

The European Union, heavily reliant on phosphate rock imports, including from China, Iraq, and Syria, expressed apprehension about potential shortages. The Hague Centre for Strategic Studies published a report highlighting the EU's dependence on imports and the urgent need for alternative sources.

Scientific journal Nature warned of impending supply disruptions, citing Russia's invasion of Ukraine and subsequent economic sanctions as factors that could lead to market volatility. As the global economy consumes approximately 50 million tonnes of phosphorus annually, experts have raised the alarm about a potential "phosphogeddon" if supply trends persist.

Also watch |&nbsp;Orkney could leave UK to become self-governing territory of Norway

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Recognising the significance of the discovery, Norway's minister of trade and industry, Jan Christian Vestre, announced the government's consideration of expediting the development of a massive mine in Helleland. The completion of the analysis on 47 miles of drill cores will determine whether the project receives approval, with the first major mine potentially commencing operations by 2028.

The European Raw Materials Alliance has already voiced its support for the mining plans, highlighting the importance of securing sustainable raw material sources. The European Commission has welcomed the discovery, recognising its potential to support the Commission's objectives regarding raw materials. Norge Mining predicts that the projected ore body, reaching an impressive depth of 4,500 metres, could theoretically satisfy global demand for the next century.

The enormous phosphate rock deposit in Norway represents a significant milestone in the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions. With the potential to meet the global demand for batteries and solar panels for the next 100 years, this discovery offers hope for a future powered by green technologies.

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Norge Mining, a prominent mining company, has announced the discovery of an enormous phosphate rock deposit in southwestern Norway. According to the company, this deposit is estimated to contain up to 70 billion tonnes of the non-renewable resource, making it a game-changer for the global demand for batteries and solar panels up to 100 years, as reported by the Independent.

Norge Mining, a prominent mining company, has announced the discovery of an enormous phosphate rock deposit in southwestern Norway. According to the company, this deposit is estimated to contain up to 70 billion tonnes of the non-renewable resource, making it a game-changer for the global demand for batteries and solar panels up to 100 years, as reported by the Independent. The site also holds deposits of strategic minerals such as titanium and vanadium, further bolstering its significance. Phosphate rock, renowned for its high phosphorus concentration, is a vital component in the production of green technologies. Why is this a groundbreaking find? Despite huge demand, phosphorus availability has been limited, resulting in significant supply challenges. With this groundbreaking find, Norge Mining aims to alleviate these concerns and potentially revolutionise the renewable energy industry. Previously, Russia held control over the world's largest ultra-pure phosphate rock deposits, raising concerns about the high supply risk associated with these "critical raw materials." The European Union, heavily reliant on phosphate rock imports, including from China, Iraq, and Syria, expressed apprehension about potential shortages. The Hague Centre for Strategic Studies published a report highlighting the EU's dependence on imports and the urgent need for alternative sources. Scientific journal Nature warned of impending supply disruptions, citing Russia's invasion of Ukraine and subsequent economic sanctions as factors that could lead to market volatility. As the global economy consumes approximately 50 million tonnes of phosphorus annually, experts have raised the alarm about a potential "phosphogeddon" if supply trends persist. Also watch | Orkney could leave UK to become self-governing territory of Norway Recognising the significance of the discovery, Norway's minister of trade and industry, Jan Christian Vestre, announced the government's consideration of expediting the development of a massive mine in Helleland. The completion of the analysis on 47 miles of drill cores will determine whether the project receives approval, with the first major mine potentially commencing operations by 2028. The European Raw Materials Alliance has already voiced its support for the mining plans, highlighting the importance of securing sustainable raw material sources. The European Commission has welcomed the discovery, recognising its potential to support the Commission's objectives regarding raw materials. Norge Mining predicts that the projected ore body, reaching an impressive depth of 4,500 metres, could theoretically satisfy global demand for the next century. The enormous phosphate rock deposit in Norway represents a significant milestone in the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions. With the potential to meet the global demand for batteries and solar panels for the next 100 years, this discovery offers hope for a future powered by green technologies. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

A paradigm shift? Massive phosphate deposit found in Norway, could meet global battery demand for 100 years

Scruffy depots packed with bags of ore line a road leading to the Democratic Republic of Congo's mining capital Kolwezi, in the southeast of the vast mineral-rich African country. 
 
Behind depot walls scrawled with "CoCu" — signifying cobalt and copper — traders assess the purity of illegally mined ore brought in by informal miners, and fix a price. 
 
But the miners, who mostly work in dire conditions, complain that traders rig purity readings to rip them off.&nbsp; "There's trickery everywhere," said miner Paul Bande, 45, at the Kamilombe artisanal mine near Kolwezi. 
 
An ambitious scheme is now taking shape in Lualaba province to fix the problem by establishing a government-backed depot. 
 
Known as the Musompo Trading Centre, it would cut out mercenary middlemen by offering to test and warehouse ore on behalf of the miners. 
 
Willy Yav, the head of Congolese firm SudSouth tasked by the Lualaba government with running the centre, described the average ore trader as a "mafia guy". 
 
The trading centre would also help burnish the image of artisanal cobalt, he explained, and lead to more money and better working conditions for miners. 
 
A traceability and certification scheme, for example, would ensure that ore in Musompo has only been sourced from artisanal mines that meet certain rights and safety conditions. 
 
Congo produces over 70 per cent of the world's cobalt, a metal critical to batteries used in electronics and electric cars.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-nine-trapped-drc-miners-rescued-by-man-with-bare-hands-in-viral-video-576474">Nine trapped DRC miners rescued by man with bare hands in VIRAL video</a> 
 
Most cobalt is extracted from giant industrial mines, but over 200,000 people are estimated to work as so-called artisanal miners at illegal mining sites. 
 
Accusations of child labour, dangerous working conditions and corruption in the artisanal sector weigh on Congo's whole cobalt industry. 
 
The impoverished country relies heavily on mining: the sector represented 95 per cent of export revenues, and about a quarter of GDP between 2016 and 2021, according to the International Monetary Fund.

<h2>Legal issues&nbsp;</h2>

SudSouth CEO Willy Yav admitted that legal issues hinder the Musompo Trading Centre, which is not yet up and running.

Under Congolese law, artisanal miners are only permitted to work in government-designated zones and must be members of approved cooperatives.&nbsp;

Yet the law is not enforced. Most artisanal miners work outside the designated zones, in pits and tunnels dug with rudimentary tools, on concessions owned by mining multinationals.&nbsp;

Without a resolution of the legal issues, legitimate buyers will struggle to purchase ore from Musompo. &nbsp;

Other complications abound. For example, the role of Congo's Entreprise Generale du Cobalt (EGC), a state company with a monopoly on buying and marketing artisan mined cobalt, is unclear.&nbsp;

Congo launched EGC in 2021 hoping to develop the artisanal sector and to influence world cobalt prices. But the state firm has not yet bought any cobalt.

<h2>'Impatience'&nbsp;</h2>

Yav hopes the trading centre can work with the Kamilombe artisanal mine on a pilot basis. Success could then serve as a model for reforming the entire informal cobalt sector.&nbsp;"It's very important to fix this," he said, noting that informal diggers will keep invading corporate concessions because they have families to feed.&nbsp;

"Everyone's interest is met through a model like the trade centre".&nbsp;

A USAID critical minerals adviser, who requested anonymity, said the scheme could work but that legal issues, as well as finding buyers for artisan mined cobalt posed complications.

"There's a lot of interest from the provincial government that has an interest in cleaning up this supply chain and also generating a fair tax revenue," he said.

There is enthusiasm for the scheme in Kamilombe — a sprawling artisanal site of an estimated 1,000 tunnels not far from Kolwezi and located on a state-owned concession.

Bande, the miner, said he was waiting with "impatience" for the opening of the government-backed trading centre.&nbsp;

Traders only pay miners for either copper or cobalt, he explained, even though the ore they dig often contains both.&nbsp;

AFP visited both the Musompo Trading Centre and the Kamilombe artisanal mine as part of a trip facilitated by the Cobalt Institute, a lobby group.

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Scruffy depots packed with bags of ore line a road leading to the Democratic Republic of Congo's mining capital Kolwezi, in the southeast of the vast mineral-rich African country.

Scruffy depots packed with bags of ore line a road leading to the Democratic Republic of Congo's mining capital Kolwezi, in the southeast of the vast mineral-rich African country. Behind depot walls scrawled with "CoCu" — signifying cobalt and copper — traders assess the purity of illegally mined ore brought in by informal miners, and fix a price. But the miners, who mostly work in dire conditions, complain that traders rig purity readings to rip them off. "There's trickery everywhere," said miner Paul Bande, 45, at the Kamilombe artisanal mine near Kolwezi. An ambitious scheme is now taking shape in Lualaba province to fix the problem by establishing a government-backed depot. Known as the Musompo Trading Centre, it would cut out mercenary middlemen by offering to test and warehouse ore on behalf of the miners. Willy Yav, the head of Congolese firm SudSouth tasked by the Lualaba government with running the centre, described the average ore trader as a "mafia guy". The trading centre would also help burnish the image of artisanal cobalt, he explained, and lead to more money and better working conditions for miners. A traceability and certification scheme, for example, would ensure that ore in Musompo has only been sourced from artisanal mines that meet certain rights and safety conditions. Congo produces over 70 per cent of the world's cobalt, a metal critical to batteries used in electronics and electric cars. Also read | Nine trapped DRC miners rescued by man with bare hands in VIRAL video Most cobalt is extracted from giant industrial mines, but over 200,000 people are estimated to work as so-called artisanal miners at illegal mining sites. Accusations of child labour, dangerous working conditions and corruption in the artisanal sector weigh on Congo's whole cobalt industry. The impoverished country relies heavily on mining: the sector represented 95 per cent of export revenues, and about a quarter of GDP between 2016 and 2021, according to the International Monetary Fund. Legal issues SudSouth CEO Willy Yav admitted that legal issues hinder the Musompo Trading Centre, which is not yet up and running. Under Congolese law, artisanal miners are only permitted to work in government-designated zones and must be members of approved cooperatives. Yet the law is not enforced. Most artisanal miners work outside the designated zones, in pits and tunnels dug with rudimentary tools, on concessions owned by mining multinationals. Without a resolution of the legal issues, legitimate buyers will struggle to purchase ore from Musompo. Other complications abound. For example, the role of Congo's Entreprise Generale du Cobalt (EGC), a state company with a monopoly on buying and marketing artisan mined cobalt, is unclear. Congo launched EGC in 2021 hoping to develop the artisanal sector and to influence world cobalt prices. But the state firm has not yet bought any cobalt. 'Impatience' Yav hopes the trading centre can work with the Kamilombe artisanal mine on a pilot basis. Success could then serve as a model for reforming the entire informal cobalt sector. "It's very important to fix this," he said, noting that informal diggers will keep invading corporate concessions because they have families to feed. "Everyone's interest is met through a model like the trade centre". A USAID critical minerals adviser, who requested anonymity, said the scheme could work but that legal issues, as well as finding buyers for artisan mined cobalt posed complications. "There's a lot of interest from the provincial government that has an interest in cleaning up this supply chain and also generating a fair tax revenue," he said. There is enthusiasm for the scheme in Kamilombe — a sprawling artisanal site of an estimated 1,000 tunnels not far from Kolwezi and located on a state-owned concession. Bande, the miner, said he was waiting with "impatience" for the opening of the government-backed trading centre. Traders only pay miners for either copper or cobalt, he explained, even though the ore they dig often contains both. AFP visited both the Musompo Trading Centre and the Kamilombe artisanal mine as part of a trip facilitated by the Cobalt Institute, a lobby group. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

DR Congo sets up scheme to save informal cobalt miners from swindlers

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is looking to develop resources on the moon. This will initially include oxygen and water and eventually may expand to iron and rare earth. The US space agency has already taken steps towards excavating moon soil in 2032, said scientists on Wednesday (June 28).

As part of its Artemis mission, NASA is planning to return American astronauts to the moon by 2025. The crew would include a woman and a person of colour. The agency plans to learn from the moon mission in order to facilitate a trip to Mars.

An important part of the mission is advancing commercial opportunities in space. NASA is looking to quantify potential resources including energy, water and lunar soil as a goal to attract commercial investment, said Gerald Sanders, who is a rocket scientist at NASA.

He said that developing access to resources on the moon will be key to cutting costs and developing a circular economy.

"We are trying to invest in the exploration phase, understand the resources... to (lower) risk such that external investment makes sense that could lead to development and production," he told a mining conference in Brisbane.

"We are literally just scratching the surface," he said.&nbsp;

<h2>Test drill rig</h2>

At the end of the month, NASA will send a test drill rig to the moon. By 2032, it plans a larger-scale excavation of moon soil and a pilot processing plant.

It is expected that the first customers would be commercial rocket companies. These would use the moon's resources for fuel or oxygen.

Samuel Webster, an assistant director at the agency said that the Australian Space Agency is involved in making a semi-autonomous rover which will take samples of the lunar soil during a NASA mission as early as 2026.

The rover will demonstrate how the lunar soil will be collected, the soil that contains oxygen in form of oxides.

Using separate equipment sent to the moon with the rover, NASA will aim to extract that oxygen, he said.

"This ... is a key step towards establishing a sustainable human presence on the moon, as well (as) supporting future missions to Mars," he said at the conference.

(With inputs from agencies)

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National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is looking to develop resources on the moon. This will initially include oxygen and water and eventually may expand to iron and rare earth.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is looking to develop resources on the moon. This will initially include oxygen and water and eventually may expand to iron and rare earth. The US space agency has already taken steps towards excavating moon soil in 2032, said scientists on Wednesday (June 28). As part of its Artemis mission, NASA is planning to return American astronauts to the moon by 2025. The crew would include a woman and a person of colour. The agency plans to learn from the moon mission in order to facilitate a trip to Mars. An important part of the mission is advancing commercial opportunities in space. NASA is looking to quantify potential resources including energy, water and lunar soil as a goal to attract commercial investment, said Gerald Sanders, who is a rocket scientist at NASA. He said that developing access to resources on the moon will be key to cutting costs and developing a circular economy. "We are trying to invest in the exploration phase, understand the resources... to (lower) risk such that external investment makes sense that could lead to development and production," he told a mining conference in Brisbane. "We are literally just scratching the surface," he said. Test drill rig At the end of the month, NASA will send a test drill rig to the moon. By 2032, it plans a larger-scale excavation of moon soil and a pilot processing plant. It is expected that the first customers would be commercial rocket companies. These would use the moon's resources for fuel or oxygen. Samuel Webster, an assistant director at the agency said that the Australian Space Agency is involved in making a semi-autonomous rover which will take samples of the lunar soil during a NASA mission as early as 2026. The rover will demonstrate how the lunar soil will be collected, the soil that contains oxygen in form of oxides. Using separate equipment sent to the moon with the rover, NASA will aim to extract that oxygen, he said. "This ... is a key step towards establishing a sustainable human presence on the moon, as well (as) supporting future missions to Mars," he said at the conference. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

NASA aims for lunar mining by next decade

With the growing interest in mineral deposits, countries have joined the race to mine the deep sea. Norway intends to be among the first nations to allow deep-sea mining in its waters. The country plans to mine its continental shelf to procure minerals critical for renewable energy technologies.

Why Norway wants to mine the deep sea?

In northern Sweden, some 125 miles (200 km) above the Arctic Circle, a town named Kiruna is witnessing subsidence due to the world’s biggest iron ore mine. Among several buildings, the city of 18,000 people is also home to a culturally significant, 600-tonne wooden, cosy terracotta-coloured church, designed to resemble a hut of the indigenous Sami people. The fate of these structures and homes is intertwined with the state-run company LKAB which is the largest iron ore mine in the world and produces 80 per cent of the European Union’s supply, said a report by the Guardian.

What will happen to the town?

In the upcoming years, Kiruna is about to witness one of the world’s most radical relocation projects as the local iron ore mine is threatening to swallow the town, as per the Guardian, after cracks emerged in hospitals and school buildings. At least 6,000 are set to move from the sinking town and will also face a gradual rise in their rent, over eight years to a cap of 25 per cent higher than the old rate.&nbsp;

Kiruna church

In 1912, the town became home to the 600-tonne wooden building with no religious symbol which was once described by the vicar, Lena Tjärnberg, as “the living room of the community”. In the next three years, after more than a century, the most beautiful old building in Sweden will be moved. According to the report, the terracotta-coloured church, designed to resemble a hut of the indigenous Sami people, will be relocated some three km east of the old town to near the local graveyard.&nbsp;

The LKAB

Founded in 1900 the mine in question is run by the Swedish state-owned company LKAB which is also the largest iron ore mine in the world. However, moving forward the company hopes to be at the forefront of Europe’s green industrial revolution and drive autonomy for natural resources, as per the Guardian. In 2021, the company also began producing fossil-free sponge iron which was done by replacing coal with hydrogen produced from green electricity.&nbsp;

Last month, the company also announced that it was sitting on the largest known deposit of rare earth elements in Europe, some of which are important for producing electric car batteries and wind turbines. Subsequently, the Swedish Deputy Prime Minister as well as the one in charge of climate and business, Ebba Busch said, “Sweden is literally a goldmine…Europe needs to learn the lesson, to not be so highly dependent on one single country for gas in the way we were (on) Russia.”&nbsp;

Speaking to the reporters from inside the mine, Busch at the time had said that this discovery of rare earth metals also gives Europe a chance to be less dependent on China which is the source of 86 per cent of the global supply, reported the Guardian.&nbsp;

How will it affect the local community?

The kind of transformation Kiruna is going through has raised alarms among many as the entire town is going to be relocated due to the mining activity in the region and the risk it poses to the town’s residents including the Sami people. Centuries before the LKAB began their mining operations in the region, the Sami people would herd reindeer throughout the Arctic lands, however, reports suggest that their way of life is under threat.&nbsp;

In addition, the mining and human activities which have consequently led to the fragmentation of the land make reindeer herding ever more difficult while the climate crisis was already threatening the main winter food source for reindeer which is lichen. The Sami people also fear that any disruptions to such an “ancient activity” would compromise their rights to the land, reported the Guardian.

An LKAB spokesperson, Anders Lindberg, said that two Sami villages have already changed their herding routes since the mine opened while the company has become better at listening to the herders’ issues and is working on minimising the impact of their work. However, according to the report, another Sami village named Gabna might have to change their herding routes since the discovery of the new rare earth elements.&nbsp; 
 
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In northern Sweden, some 125 miles (200 km) above the Arctic Circle, a town named Kiruna is witnessing subsidence due to the world’s biggest iron ore mine. Among several buildings, the city of 18,000 people is also home to a culturally significant, 600-tonne wooden, cosy terracotta-coloured church, designed to resemble a hut of the indigenous Sami people.

In northern Sweden, some 125 miles (200 km) above the Arctic Circle, a town named Kiruna is witnessing subsidence due to the world’s biggest iron ore mine. Among several buildings, the city of 18,000 people is also home to a culturally significant, 600-tonne wooden, cosy terracotta-coloured church, designed to resemble a hut of the indigenous Sami people. The fate of these structures and homes is intertwined with the state-run company LKAB which is the largest iron ore mine in the world and produces 80 per cent of the European Union’s supply, said a report by the Guardian. What will happen to the town? In the upcoming years, Kiruna is about to witness one of the world’s most radical relocation projects as the local iron ore mine is threatening to swallow the town, as per the Guardian, after cracks emerged in hospitals and school buildings. At least 6,000 are set to move from the sinking town and will also face a gradual rise in their rent, over eight years to a cap of 25 per cent higher than the old rate. Kiruna church In 1912, the town became home to the 600-tonne wooden building with no religious symbol which was once described by the vicar, Lena Tjärnberg, as “the living room of the community”. In the next three years, after more than a century, the most beautiful old building in Sweden will be moved. According to the report, the terracotta-coloured church, designed to resemble a hut of the indigenous Sami people, will be relocated some three km east of the old town to near the local graveyard. The LKAB Founded in 1900 the mine in question is run by the Swedish state-owned company LKAB which is also the largest iron ore mine in the world. However, moving forward the company hopes to be at the forefront of Europe’s green industrial revolution and drive autonomy for natural resources, as per the Guardian. In 2021, the company also began producing fossil-free sponge iron which was done by replacing coal with hydrogen produced from green electricity. Last month, the company also announced that it was sitting on the largest known deposit of rare earth elements in Europe, some of which are important for producing electric car batteries and wind turbines. Subsequently, the Swedish Deputy Prime Minister as well as the one in charge of climate and business, Ebba Busch said, “Sweden is literally a goldmine…Europe needs to learn the lesson, to not be so highly dependent on one single country for gas in the way we were (on) Russia.” Speaking to the reporters from inside the mine, Busch at the time had said that this discovery of rare earth metals also gives Europe a chance to be less dependent on China which is the source of 86 per cent of the global supply, reported the Guardian. How will it affect the local community? The kind of transformation Kiruna is going through has raised alarms among many as the entire town is going to be relocated due to the mining activity in the region and the risk it poses to the town’s residents including the Sami people. Centuries before the LKAB began their mining operations in the region, the Sami people would herd reindeer throughout the Arctic lands, however, reports suggest that their way of life is under threat. In addition, the mining and human activities which have consequently led to the fragmentation of the land make reindeer herding ever more difficult while the climate crisis was already threatening the main winter food source for reindeer which is lichen. The Sami people also fear that any disruptions to such an “ancient activity” would compromise their rights to the land, reported the Guardian. An LKAB spokesperson, Anders Lindberg, said that two Sami villages have already changed their herding routes since the mine opened while the company has become better at listening to the herders’ issues and is working on minimising the impact of their work. However, according to the report, another Sami village named Gabna might have to change their herding routes since the discovery of the new rare earth elements. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Why this town in Sweden is being moved one building at a time

As the necessity for investments in the extraction of essential minerals conflicts with growing worries over national security, Canada has ordered China to relinquish its stakes in three Canadian mining businesses immediately.

Why has Canada ordered Chinese firms to divest from the country’s mining companies?

Glencore is facing fines in&nbsp;millions of dollars for a series of corruption offences in which it used a private plane to fly money to bribe officials in different African governments.

In June, a division of the FTSE 100 commodities behemoth admitted to paying many bribes to get access to oil supplies.

Following the filing of a number of charges by the Serious Fraud Office, it was the first time a firm had ever been found guilty of bribery under <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-defends-uk-governments-handling-of-channel-migrants-530634">UK</a> law (SFO).

Glencore may face fines of over £243 million, and the SFO is requesting the highest confiscation order ever against a British business of £93.4 million, as well as £4.5 million in fees.

At today's sentence hearing at Southwark Crown Court in London, the exact sum will be decided.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-australians-arrested-for-bribing-sri-lankan-officials-to-secure-infra-contracts-524572">Two Australians arrested for bribing Sri Lankan officials to secure infra contracts</a>

Glencore's attorney stated on Wednesday at a hearing that the company "unconditionally regrets the harm caused."

However, prosecuting attorney Alexandra Healy asserted that "corruption was pervasive inside the enterprise" and that "offering of bribes was an accepted method of conducting business for the company."

After a protracted inquiry, it was discovered that Glencore's London-based oil trading department paid bribes totaling more than £24 million to get privileged access to cargoes in South Sudan, Nigeria, Cameroon, the Ivory Coast, and Nigeria.

Also watch |&nbsp;A dramatic diplomatic breakthrough: Ethiopian govt, Tigray authorities sign a peace deal

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The investigation discovered that a Glencore agent in Nigeria took over £3.6 million from a slush fund and often used a private plane to fly the money to Cameroon to bribe authorities, among a long list of other offences.

Agents, executives, and dealers for Glencore were so casual that they frequently addressed one another as "senorita" and "bro," even when talking about bribery.

Another agent received £870,000 in 2011 to pay bribes to Equatorial Guinean authorities in exchange for access to oil cargo, and the company reportedly approved £5,000 in "hotel charges" for the agent during a trip to London.

A top SFO team comprised entirely of women led the Glencore inquiry.

<img alt="All women team" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="79a9a27b-618d-4f79-937f-c7308b63c9fb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/AA13FIs2.jpg" />

Photo credits: The Guardian

These included, (above) from left to right: Sara Chouraqui, joint head of fraud, bribery and corruption and Victoria Jacobson, the prosecutor for Operation Azoth – codename for the Glencore probe – as well as department director Lisa Osofsky and case controller Liz Collery.

A Glencore official made a request for approximately £700,000 from the business' Swiss cash desk the same year, purportedly for "establishing an office in South Sudan" soon after the country gained independence.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Glencore is facing fines in millions of dollars for a series of corruption offences in which it used a private plane to fly money to bribe officials in different African governments.

Glencore is facing fines in millions of dollars for a series of corruption offences in which it used a private plane to fly money to bribe officials in different African governments. In June, a division of the FTSE 100 commodities behemoth admitted to paying many bribes to get access to oil supplies. Following the filing of a number of charges by the Serious Fraud Office, it was the first time a firm had ever been found guilty of bribery under UK law (SFO). Glencore may face fines of over £243 million, and the SFO is requesting the highest confiscation order ever against a British business of £93.4 million, as well as £4.5 million in fees. At today's sentence hearing at Southwark Crown Court in London, the exact sum will be decided. Also read | Two Australians arrested for bribing Sri Lankan officials to secure infra contracts Glencore's attorney stated on Wednesday at a hearing that the company "unconditionally regrets the harm caused." However, prosecuting attorney Alexandra Healy asserted that "corruption was pervasive inside the enterprise" and that "offering of bribes was an accepted method of conducting business for the company." After a protracted inquiry, it was discovered that Glencore's London-based oil trading department paid bribes totaling more than £24 million to get privileged access to cargoes in South Sudan, Nigeria, Cameroon, the Ivory Coast, and Nigeria. Also watch | A dramatic diplomatic breakthrough: Ethiopian govt, Tigray authorities sign a peace deal The investigation discovered that a Glencore agent in Nigeria took over £3.6 million from a slush fund and often used a private plane to fly the money to Cameroon to bribe authorities, among a long list of other offences. Agents, executives, and dealers for Glencore were so casual that they frequently addressed one another as "senorita" and "bro," even when talking about bribery. Another agent received £870,000 in 2011 to pay bribes to Equatorial Guinean authorities in exchange for access to oil cargo, and the company reportedly approved £5,000 in "hotel charges" for the agent during a trip to London. A top SFO team comprised entirely of women led the Glencore inquiry. Photo credits: The Guardian These included, (above) from left to right: Sara Chouraqui, joint head of fraud, bribery and corruption and Victoria Jacobson, the prosecutor for Operation Azoth – codename for the Glencore probe – as well as department director Lisa Osofsky and case controller Liz Collery. A Glencore official made a request for approximately £700,000 from the business' Swiss cash desk the same year, purportedly for "establishing an office in South Sudan" soon after the country gained independence. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Glencore faces steep penalties over African bribery scandal; mining corporation used private jet to fly bribe

Miners in Angola have made the biggest pink diamond discovery in 300 years. They found a rare and pure pink diamond, the Australian site operator said on Wednesday (July 27). It's being considered the largest pink diamond ever discovered,weighing 170 carat. Being called The Lulo Rose, it was found at the Lulo mine in the nation’s diamond-rich northeast, as per a statement from the Lucapa Diamond Company. The Angolan government, a partner in mind, applauded the historic discovery of the Type IIa diamond, one of the purest and rarest varieties of natural stones. The diamond will likely be sold at a spectacular price in an international tender.

Mineral Resources Minister Diamantino Azevedo of Angola stated, “This record and spectacular pink diamond recovered from Lulo continues to showcase Angola as an important player on the world stage,” AFP reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sothebys-may-be-liable-for-4million-for-missing-diamonds-after-being-accused-of-giving-them-to-a-stranger-500720">Also read |&nbsp;Sotheby's may be liable for $4million for missing diamonds after being accused of giving them to a ‘stranger’</a>

Earlier, similar pink diamonds have been sold for record-breaking amounts, even though The Lulo would need to be cut and polished to realise its full value- a process that can cause a stone to lose half of its weight.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-queen-marie-antoinettes-diamond-bracelets-up-for-grabs-at-geneva-auction-411740">Also read |&nbsp;French queen Marie-Antoinette's diamond bracelets up for grabs at Geneva auction</a>

The stone 59.6 carat Pink Star was purchased for 71.2 million US dollars in Hong Kong in the year 2017. It is still the costliest diamond that has been sold. Chow Tai Fook, a jewellery company won the offer. Henry Cheng Kar-Shun, the company’s chairman, phoned in the offer. But this isn’t the first time the Pink Star was listed for sale. It was purchased by New York-based diamond cutter Isaac Wolf in 2013 for a record of $83 million at Sotheby’s auction in Geneva, CNN reported.

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(With inputs from agencies)

Miners in Angola have made the biggest pink diamond discovery in 300 years. They found a rare and pure pink diamond, the Australian site operator said on Wednesday (July 27).

Miners in Angola have made the biggest pink diamond discovery in 300 years. They found a rare and pure pink diamond, the Australian site operator said on Wednesday (July 27). It's being considered the largest pink diamond ever discovered,weighing 170 carat. Being called The Lulo Rose, it was found at the Lulo mine in the nation’s diamond-rich northeast, as per a statement from the Lucapa Diamond Company. The Angolan government, a partner in mind, applauded the historic discovery of the Type IIa diamond, one of the purest and rarest varieties of natural stones. The diamond will likely be sold at a spectacular price in an international tender. Mineral Resources Minister Diamantino Azevedo of Angola stated, “This record and spectacular pink diamond recovered from Lulo continues to showcase Angola as an important player on the world stage,” AFP reported. Also read | Sotheby's may be liable for $4million for missing diamonds after being accused of giving them to a ‘stranger’ Earlier, similar pink diamonds have been sold for record-breaking amounts, even though The Lulo would need to be cut and polished to realise its full value- a process that can cause a stone to lose half of its weight. Also read | French queen Marie-Antoinette's diamond bracelets up for grabs at Geneva auction The stone 59.6 carat Pink Star was purchased for 71.2 million US dollars in Hong Kong in the year 2017. It is still the costliest diamond that has been sold. Chow Tai Fook, a jewellery company won the offer. Henry Cheng Kar-Shun, the company’s chairman, phoned in the offer. But this isn’t the first time the Pink Star was listed for sale. It was purchased by New York-based diamond cutter Isaac Wolf in 2013 for a record of $83 million at Sotheby’s auction in Geneva, CNN reported. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

Angola miners discover a rare and pure pink diamond, likely biggest in 300 years

South Africa has been ranked the world's tenth least attractive destinations for mining, for the first time in the latest Fraser Institutes' annual survey of mining companies. This has raised concerns at multiple-levels, and experts feel that the country's mining sector needs urgent intervention. Here is a special report by WION correspondent Kalden Ongmu.

World of Africa: South Africa's 'unattractive mines'

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