Gemfields suspends work at the ruby mine after an attack on a company village in Mozambique
London-listed emerald and ruby miner Gemfields has suspended work in Mozambique, where two looters were shot dead in a raid that set buildings on fire.
The company, which owns Faberge, said more than 200 people involved in illegal ruby mining attacked a village built by the company next to its Montepuez Ruby Mining operation on Christmas Eve.
Two people were shot dead as security forces, consisting of the Mozambican police and army, tried to protect the village.
Work at the ruby mine was halted after an attack on a company village
Gemfields, one of the largest miners of colored gemstones, said the incident occurred as groups tried to take advantage of “the prevailing political unrest in Mozambique.”
The country has been gripped by violent protests following elections that opposition parties claim were rigged in favor of the ruling Frelimo party.
Gemfields ceased operations on Christmas Eve and relocated some of its more than 500 employees. They are now returning and the company “plans to return to normal operations before the end of the year.”
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