Key facts
- Egyptian security forces detained hundreds of people, including foreigners, near the border with Sudan.
- The detainees are accused of illegal gold mining and smuggling.
- The operation resulted in the seizure of mining equipment.
- The region is rich in gold, with Sudan's mining operations significantly impacted by its ongoing war.
- Sudanese media reported that the detained individuals were miners expelled by Egypt.
Egyptian security forces have detained hundreds of people, including foreigners, near the country's border with Sudan, citing illegal gold mining and smuggling as the reasons. The military announced the operation on Monday, stating that the detainees included 87 Egyptians and 136 foreigners, whose nationalities were not specified. The operation also led to the seizure of significant amounts of equipment used in illegal mining.
The region bordering Sudan is known for its gold deposits. Sudan itself is rich in gold mines, but the ongoing conflict has led to largely unregulated mining. A UN Panel of Experts report in 2024 indicated that over 50% of gold mined in Sudan is smuggled out, contributing significantly to the country's revenue.
Video footage circulating online depicted hundreds of Sudanese individuals at a border crossing, with Sudanese media reporting their detention and expulsion by Egyptian authorities. The Egyptian military issued a warning, stating its retention of all available options to address perceived threats.