Resolute Mining Ltd (ASX:RSG, LSE:RSG) chief executive Terry Holohan and two other executives have been detained by authorities in the military-ruled African country of Mali.
Resolute operates the Syama Gold Mine, a substantial underground operation managed through its subsidiary Société des Mines de Syama S.A., in which it holds an 80% interest, with the remaining 20% owned by the Malian Government. It also has operations in eastern Senegal with the Mako Gold Mine, an open-pit gold project.
The Australian gold miner confirmed the news of the detention of its executives today in a statement to the ASX. The trio are being held in the Economic and Financial Centre of Bamako.
According to the company, the executives are safe and are receiving support on the ground from the UK and international embassies and consulates.
“The executives were in Bamako to hold discussions with the mining and tax authorities regarding general activities related to Resolute’s in-country business practices, and to progress open claims made against Resolute, which the company maintains are unsubstantiated,” Resolute stated.
“Following the conclusion of these meetings on Friday, November 8, 2024, the three employees were unexpectedly detained.
“Resolute’s priority remains the safety and well-being of its employees.
“The employees are being treated well … [and] the company is continuing to work with the government on a resolution and will provide further updates on the situation as appropriate,” Resolute said.
Mali's constitutional democracy was disrupted in 2012 following a military coup. A subsequent coup in 2021 saw Vice President Assimi Goïta assume leadership, positioning him as Mali’s current head of state.