Congo – The Congolese government accused Apple of using minerals “illegally extracted” in the east of the country in its products.
Lawyers for the Republic of Congo had sent the American company an official notice of the need to cease and desist these behaviors, warning the giant technology company that it “may face legal action if these practices continue.”
Congolese lawyers, based in the French capital, Paris, accused Apple of purchasing minerals that were smuggled from the African Republic to the neighboring country of Rwanda, where they were laundered and “integrated into the global supply chain.”
In contact with Agence France-Presse, Apple referred to data contained in its annual report for the year 2023 regarding the alleged use of so-called conflict minerals, which are considered essential for a wide range of high-tech products.
The company said: “Based on our efforts, we have found no logical basis to conclude that any of the smelters or 3TG (tin, tantalum, tungsten, and gold) refineries identified in our supply chain as of December 31, 2023, were directly identified, financed, or even benefited.” Any armed groups indirectly in the Republic of the Congo or a neighboring country.”
It is noteworthy that the Congo, the United Nations, and Western countries accuse Rwanda of supporting rebel groups, including the “March 23 Movement,” in an attempt to control the vast mineral resources in the region, which the other side denies.
“Apple has sold technology made from metals sourced from a region whose population is devastated by gross human rights violations,” the Congolese lawyers wrote.
“Macs, iPhones and other Apple products are tainted with the blood of the Congolese people,” the lawyers added.
Source: AFP
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2024-04-25 17:27:34
