Pacifique Muliri Hides After Mining Exposure in DRC

September 24, 2025 – Congo –

Pacifique Muliri, a reporter with the Congolese Press Agency and freelance contributor to Africa Mining Intelligence, has been forced into hiding since early July 2025 following threats tied to his investigatory work in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

His investigation focused on gold-mining operations at the Lomera site in Kabare territory, South Kivu province, where he explored possible collusion between armed rebel groups and authorities in Kinshasa. During that period, Muliri’s home in Bukavu was assaulted by soldiers linked to the M23 and Congo River Alliance (AFC) militia factions, and later burglarized, with his camera, laptop, and notebook stolen.

Following the initial threats, Muliri began receiving repeated phone calls and text messages from unknown numbers warning him to abandon his work—or face lethal consequences. In mid-September, senders intensified their threats, declaring that he would be found and killed if he persisted.

Muliri has also reported that at least three individuals assisting with his Lomera investigation were killed under suspicious circumstances in Bukavu. CPJ reviewed evidence of the threatening messages and emphasized that attacks on his home, the harassment he faces, and the killings of associates all underscore the extreme dangers confronting press workers in eastern DRC.

The security situation in South Kivu remains volatile. Much of the region—including Bukavu—is under the influence or control of rebel coalitions. Mineral exploitation is deeply entwined with local conflict and power dynamics. Attempts by CPJ to seek comment from M23 representatives and DRC government officials went unanswered.

In a public statement, CPJ’s Africa director called for all conflict parties—government actors and armed groups alike—to ensure journalists’ safety and refrain from intimidation or violence. Muliri’s case highlights the peril journalists face when probing natural resource abuses in regions plagued by war and a weak rule of law.

Reference – 

DRC journalist Pacifique Muliri in hiding after threats over mining investigation