Mozambique: Amnesty International Condemns Attempted Murder of Journalist Investigating Illegal Mining

Silencing the Watchdogs: A Growing Threat to Journalists Investigating Illicit Mining

The attempted murder of Mozambican journalist Carlitos Candangue, a reporter for SOICO Television (STV), is the latest chilling example of a disturbing trend: escalating violence against journalists investigating illegal mining operations. This isn’t an isolated incident. It’s a pattern that’s unfolding across Africa and Latin America, where the pursuit of valuable resources often comes at the cost of press freedom and, tragically, lives.

The Deadly Connection: Mining, Corruption, and Attacks on the Press

Candangue’s reporting focused on illegal gold mining in Manica province, Mozambique. His work directly preceded the suspension of mining licenses, including those of companies suspected of illicit activity. This timing isn’t coincidental. Investigative journalism that exposes corruption and illegal practices within the mining sector frequently triggers retaliation. Armed men, reportedly in police uniforms, opened fire on his vehicle while he was with his son. This brazen act, condemned by Amnesty International, highlights the lengths to which those profiting from illegal mining will go to protect their interests.

This isn’t unique to Mozambique. In Brazil, the Amazon rainforest has become a particularly dangerous place for environmental journalists and Indigenous rights advocates reporting on illegal gold mining, and deforestation. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), threats against journalists in the region have surged in recent years, often linked to organised crime involved in resource extraction.

Did you know? The mining sector is consistently identified as one of the most dangerous industries for journalists globally, alongside drug trafficking and political corruption.

A Culture of Impunity Fuels the Violence

The core problem isn’t simply the attacks themselves, but the pervasive impunity that allows them to continue. Amnesty International’s concerns about Mozambique echo a wider issue: a lack of thorough investigations and prosecutions of those responsible for targeting journalists. The recent deaths of João Chamusse, editor of Ponto por Ponto, and the disappearance of Arlindo Chissale, both documented by Amnesty International, underscore this point. Without accountability, the message sent is clear: journalists can be silenced without consequence.

This impunity is often exacerbated by weak governance, corruption within law enforcement, and a lack of political will to protect press freedom. In countries where the rule of law is fragile, powerful economic interests can exert undue influence, hindering investigations and shielding perpetrators from justice.

Beyond Physical Violence: Digital Threats and Intimidation

The threats faced by journalists are evolving. While physical attacks remain a grave concern, digital threats are becoming increasingly common. These include online harassment, doxing (revealing personal information), and sophisticated disinformation campaigns designed to discredit journalists and undermine their reporting.

A 2023 report by the Reporters Without Borders (RSF) found a significant increase in online violence against female journalists, often involving sexualized attacks and threats of physical harm. These digital attacks can have a chilling effect, leading to self-censorship and discouraging journalists from pursuing sensitive investigations.

Future Trends: What to Expect

Several trends suggest the risks to journalists investigating illicit mining will likely intensify:

• Increased Demand for Critical Minerals: The global transition to renewable energy is driving demand for minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements. This increased demand will likely lead to a surge in mining activity, particularly in regions with weak environmental and labour regulations, potentially increasing conflicts and risks for journalists.
• Rise of Paramilitary Groups: In some regions, illegal mining operations are controlled by armed groups and criminal organizations. These groups often operate with impunity and are willing to use violence to protect their interests.
• Sophistication of Disinformation Campaigns: Expect to see more sophisticated disinformation campaigns aimed at discrediting journalists and manipulating public opinion. These campaigns will likely leverage artificial intelligence and social media platforms to spread false narratives.
• Expansion of Surveillance Technologies: Governments and private companies are increasingly using surveillance technologies to monitor journalists and activists. This surveillance can be used to identify sources, track movements, and intimidate individuals.

Protecting the Press: A Multi-faceted Approach

Addressing this crisis requires a multi-faceted approach:

• Strengthening Legal Protections: Governments must enact and enforce laws that protect journalists from violence and intimidation.
• Independent Investigations: All attacks on journalists must be thoroughly, independently, and impartially investigated.
• International Pressure: International organizations and governments must exert pressure on countries to uphold press freedom and protect journalists.
• Support for Investigative Journalism: Funding and resources must be provided to support investigative journalism, particularly in regions where it is most at risk.
• Digital Security Training: Journalists need training in digital security to protect themselves from online threats.

Pro Tip: Journalists working on sensitive investigations should prioritize their digital security, using encrypted communication tools and practicing good operational security (OPSEC).

FAQ

Q: Why are journalists targeted for reporting on mining?
A: Journalists are targeted because their reporting exposes illegal activities, corruption, and environmental damage, threatening the profits of those involved in illicit mining operations.

Q: What can be done to protect journalists?
A: Protecting journalists requires stronger legal protections, independent investigations of attacks, international pressure, and support for investigative journalism.

Q: Is this problem limited to specific regions?
A: While particularly acute in Africa and Latin America, threats to journalists investigating mining are a global concern, occurring in various regions with significant mining activity.

The safety of journalists is paramount to a functioning democracy. The attempted murder of Carlitos Candangue serves as a stark reminder of the risks they face and the urgent need for action.

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