Prior to the arrival of this aircraft, gold was transported overland from the mining areas to Conakry. This was a boon for the robbers. Several robberies have been recorded against vehicles transporting gold, most of which have resulted in the death of men.
“Yesterday we lined up a plane to transport the gold parcels from the interior of the country. Because there are robberies and armed attacks. Even last week we were the victim of a robbery during which we lost one of our members. It is for this reason that we called on our partners who helped us to acquire this aircraft,” explained N’Famory Traoré, president of UNAJOG.
A sigh of relief
“Today is a sigh of relief for all gold miners in Guinea. We thank the President of the Republic his Excellency, Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya who has a constant concern to ensure that Guineans are protected from all these adventures. This is our way of supporting the President in his work to rebuild the State. UNAJOG always advocates peace in Guinea, that’s why we are fighting to put the gold miners in the best conditions”.
Guinea produces 8 to 10 tons of gold annually. Potential reserves are estimated at 700 tonnes. The northeastern part of Guinea is home to a large gold deposit. The most prospective regions are: Siguiri, Dinguiraye, Kouroussa and Mandiana.