A new NGO report has alleged that security forces guarding Petra Diamonds’ Williamson mine in Tanzania (pictured) have been responsible for seven deaths and 41 assaults.
The report, “The Deadly Cost of ‘Ethical’ Diamonds,” from London-based human rights group RAID, claims that the Williamson mine’s local security contractor, Zenith Security Services, has repeatedly abused local diggers, based on interviews with over 100 victims, their families, and other witnesses. All the victims were described as unarmed at the time of the attacks.
This is not the first time these charges have arisen. In September, a British law firm, Leigh Day, said it was filing a claim against Petra, on behalf of 30 Tanzanian nationals who allege they have suffered severe abuses from security forces at the mine.
In a response, Petra said it views the allegations as “a matter of urgency” and said it has “zero tolerance” for human rights abuse. It has appointed a committee made up of non-executive directors and an external advisor to investigate them.
Petra said that it is instituting some of RAID’s recommendations, including creating a community grievance mechanism, which will be part of a “new, accessible” community office. It’s also closing its on-site “temporary police post” and upgrading its medical facilities.
It’s also launching a tender to find a new security contractor, when Zenith’s contract runs out in December, and has suspended its chief security officer, pending the results of the investigation.
RAID executive director Anneke Van Woudenberg said in a statement that “initial steps by Petra Diamonds are encouraging, though the real proof will come when those who have been harmed by the company’s operations receive remedy and justice, and the rights abuses stop.”
Petra acquired the Williamson mine from De Beers in 2009. It owns a 75% stake in its holding company, with the Tanzanian government owning the remaining 25%.
Earlier this year, Petra put Williamson and its three other mines up for sale but found no takers. It has since undergone a financial restructuring.
(Image courtesy of RAIN)
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