Metalkol case: Chengtun Congo Resources denies illegal mineral purchases and funding the Kabila clan

Chengtun Congo Resources (CCR), the Congolese subsidiary of Chengtun Mining Group, rejects allegations connected to a National Security Council mission at the Metalkol site in Lualaba. At a press conference, its counsel, Guy Mafuta Kabongo, said CCR buys only traceable minerals and requires legal documents and proof that taxes owed to the state have been paid. The company denies commercial or financial ties to the Hosanna cooperative, a cooperative reportedly linked to Lualaba Governor Fifi Masuka Saini, and rival Luilu Ressources, and says it does not use armed military personnel. CCR says Kalongwe Mining could not have paid dividends before 2024, after its relationship with GICC ended, and demands a public apology and publication of its right of reply within 48 hours, warning it may take legal action.