The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has filed criminal complaints against Apple subsidiaries in France and Belgium, alleging the tech giant indirectly uses conflict minerals sourced from militia-controlled mines. These minerals—tin, tantalum, and tungsten—are crucial in producing electronic devices such as computers and mobile phones. However, the DRC contends that the minerals Apple uses are sourced from armed groups linked to severe human rights abuses, including violence and exploitation in artisanal mines. Apple has long faced scrutiny over its supply chain practices, including allegations of child labor in cobalt mining. While the company asserts compliance through supplier audits and mineral traceability initiatives, the DRC’s lawyers claim Apple is complicit in laundering looted minerals through complex supply chains. The complaints accuse Apple of war crimes, laundering tainted goods, and deceptive practices to assure consumers of ethical sourcing.
SOURCE: BUSINESS INSIDER
