The government tightens sanctions against illegal gold panning and dredging / first test for Renard

Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara signed a bill imposing up to 20 years in prison for those involved in illegal gold panning, including sponsors, receivers, financiers, and site owners. The government has strengthened its legal framework by amending the Penal Code to better combat activities harmful to the environment and public health, especially illegal gold mining. The new measures include harsher sanctions and the possibility of cumulative penalties to address the severity of offenses. The reform aims to enhance the effectiveness of the fight against environmental crime.