chargement...
New tensions are flaring at the Mauritanian border as Polisario militias intensify their activities. «The situation in northern Mauritania is becoming increasingly concerning, with a surge in attacks attributed to elements of the Polisario Front targeting gold prospectors», reports a Nouakchott-based media outlet.
«Despite the Mauritanian army's efforts to bolster its presence along the border and close vulnerable routes over the years, attacks by groups linked to the Polisario Front have significantly escalated in recent months.»
The latest assault in a northern mining area, where a prospector was shot and a 4x4 vehicle along with mining equipment were stolen, underscores the escalating threat. It particularly highlights «the existence of networks that now move with agility along the border, exploiting the complexity of the territory».
In response to this armed threat, prospectors are voicing their frustration and calling for «genuine protection from the Mauritanian state, not just a symbolic presence».
Last September, Polisario militias abducted a dozen Mauritanian gold prospectors near El Malhate, despite it being within Mauritanian territory. These actions are reportedly in retaliation to the Mauritanian army's decision to «tighten control over areas long considered lawless zones».
On May 22, Mauritania closed the Lebriga region at the Algerian border, a corridor frequently used by the Front to launch attacks on the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) or civilian targets in Es-Smara and Mahbes.
To enhance its security measures, the Mauritanian army has recently acquired long-range surveillance drones from the French manufacturer Milton Innovation, under a contract financed by the European Union to the tune of 40 million euros.
