Burkina Faso : « Fine Coal » Case Reveals Gluttony of Some Magistrates in Broad Daylight
It is a case dating back to December 2018 when 32 containers containing fine coal, owned by IAM Gold Essakane SA, were seized by the National Anti-Fraud Brigade (BNAF) of Burkina Faso in Bobo-Dioulasso on suspicion of fraud. Essakane is accused of fraud in the marketing of gold and other precious substances, illegal export of hazardous waste, money laundering, forgery in private trade documents, use of false private trade documents, and money laundering.
Since then, the legal journey has begun. The case has been subject to numerous delays, involving experts to analyze the contents of the shipments. According to sources, some magistrates intentionally prolong the case to maximize profits. In recent months, this case known as the « fine coal affair » has resurfaced with the same sluggishness. Magistrates who have deliberately delayed proceedings for almost five years are once again finding reasons to stall. According to some sources, certain magistrates are being reassigned to other courts but apparently do not want to let go of this fine coal case, likely due to the profit they hope to gain.
The government, having played too much of a spectator role in this case, imposed a fine on IAM Gold Essakane and seized the 32 containers, taking ownership away from the company in response to the demand of the Burkinabè people. According to the transitional government, both the fine and the shipments will be used in the fight against terrorism.
Following the government’s decision to conclude this matter, some magistrates have started spreading rumors, even planning to manipulate the population to achieve their goals. It remains to be seen if their greed will lead them to commit such foolish acts.
