Luanda, Jan. 9, 2026 (Lusa) - The Angolan police have identified 15 illegal diamond and gold mining sites in Huíla province, involving more than 26,000 people, both nationals and foreigners, local media reported on Friday.

According to the provincial commander of the National Police in Huíla, Commissioner Divaldo Martins, the practice, which has been growing in recent times, was identified in the areas of Gambos, Chipindo, Dongo, Cuvango and Jamba.

Divaldo Martins expressed "concern about illegal mining," stressing that police authorities will continue to combat this phenomenon that affects the domestic economy.

"At the moment, we have been able to identify around 15 consistent and permanent mining sites, namely in the areas of Chipindo, Dongo, Cuvango and Jamba, involving at least 26,000 people, including nationals and foreign citizens," said the provincial commander of the National Police in Huíla.

Last year, the minister for mineral resources, petroleum and gas, Diamantino Azevedo, expressed concern about the increase in illegal diamond mining in the province of Lunda Norte, stressing that the situation "is aggravated by the existence of several illegal diamond purchasing houses, located in mining and border areas, (...) making payments in foreign currency and feeding organised marketing networks."

The Angolan minister stressed that illegal mining not only jeopardises the national sovereignty and international image of Angola and its diamond sector, but also the very sustainability of the industry.

NME/AYLS // AYLS

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