DR Congo Orders Probe Into $300m-Plus Gecamines

Sunday 18th January 2026

By inAfrika Newsroom

The Democratic Republic of Congo’s justice ministry ordered an investigation into alleged embezzlement of more than $300 million from state miner Gecamines between 2012 and 2020, according to a ministry statement on Saturday. The case puts governance of the country’s mining wealth back in focus, as authorities face pressure to improve transparency in a sector central to public revenue.

Gecamines has long played a major role in copper and cobalt, both critical to global supply chains. Therefore, any large diversion of funds raises questions about oversight, internal controls, and state accountability. The ministry said the probe will examine financial flows during the period cited.

In Kinshasa, analysts said the move could signal tougher scrutiny of historic transactions. However, outcomes will depend on the investigators’ access to records and their ability to follow money trails across entities and jurisdictions. In addition, reforms often face resistance where interests benefit from weak controls.

The government has made repeated commitments to tighten mining governance. Yet, Congolese citizens and civil society groups still argue that national wealth does not translate into reliable services. Meanwhile, investors also watch legal risk closely, because sudden enforcement shifts can affect projects and partnerships.

If the probe leads to prosecutions, it could change how state firms handle contracts and joint ventures. Conversely, if results stall, critics may see it as symbolic. Either way, the investigation adds to a wider debate about how the state manages strategic assets.

Next steps

Next steps will include appointing investigators, securing documentation, and interviewing current and former officials. Authorities are also expected to determine whether any assets can be frozen while the probe runs. After that, prosecutors could file charges if evidence meets legal thresholds.

The justice ministry may also issue further guidance on cooperation requirements for state firms and partners.

Why it matters

Next steps matter because DR Congo supplies minerals that power batteries and industry. Moreover, improved governance can help stabilise revenues and strengthen public trust. For markets, clearer rules can reduce risk premiums, although enforcement uncertainty can also disrupt operations in the short term.