In southeastern Senegal, the fight against illegal gold mining continues intensely. On Saturday, April 18, 2026, an operation conducted by GARSI 2 (Rapid Action Surveillance and Intervention Group) led to the dismantling of a clandestine site in the Wortokhaty area, located in the commune of Missirah Sirimana, department of Saraya.

Deployed between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. from its base in Saeinsoutou, the specialized unit intervened in a context marked by a resurgence of illegal gold mining activities, often linked to criminal networks. On site, the officers observed the reoccupation of a site that had previously been neutralized, illustrating the difficulty of permanently eradicating this phenomenon.

The operation led to the seizure of several pieces of equipment essential to clandestine artisanal mining. Among the recovered equipment were a motorcycle, six water pumps, four generators, and a water pump. These tools form the logistical foundation of illegal mining operations, enabling the extraction and processing of ore under conditions completely beyond their control.

Beyond simply destroying a site, this intervention is part of a broader strategy aimed at securing the area and preserving natural resources. Illegal gold mining, in addition to its environmental impacts, fosters the emergence of informal networks and illicit activities that undermine public order.

This increase in GARSI 2 operations comes just days after the official inauguration of its support base in Saeinsoutou on April 10, in the presence of military authorities. Since then, actions on the ground have multiplied, reflecting a clear commitment by the State to strengthen its security presence in this strategic border area.

In Saraya, where the economic stakes linked to gold are fueling greed, the defense and security forces seem determined to maintain pressure. The objective is clear: to curb the expansion of illegal gold mining and to permanently re-establish state authority in the affected areas.