APPLE SQUEEZED OVER CONGO MINERALS

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has hired lawyers to press Apple about its supply chain after evidence emerged that the tech giant could be sourcing minerals from conflict areas in the east of the country. It’s alleged that people who worked on Apple’s supply-chain verification in Congo had their contracts terminated after they raised concerns over ’blood’ minerals.

On April 22nd, 2024, the group of lawyers gave Apple CEO Tim Cook and the company’s French subsidiaries three weeks to respond to queries about the matter. Apple has neither acknowledged receipt of, nor responded to the queries. It has previously said it does not directly buy, procure or source primary minerals.

Rebels from the M23 rebel group captured DRC’s Rubaya town, a key mining base for coltan used in smartphones and other appliances. UN reports have said M23 is supported by Rwanda.

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