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Canadian mining company accused of complicity in Congo massacre

An association representing survivors of a 2004 massacre in the Democratic Republic of Congo have launched a class action lawsuit against Canadian company Anvil Mining Ltd.

The group, calling itself the “Canadian Association Against Impunity,” includes survivors and representatives of several NGOs. It submitted a petition for a class action suit at the Quebec Superior Court this morning.

The group alleges Anvil provided vehicles and planes to Congolese troops who suppressed a small uprising in the mining town of Kilwa, killing more than 70.

Anvil Mining has said it did allow Congolese troops to use its vehicles but had no choice in the matter. This morning Robert La Vallière, vice president of corporate affairs at Anvil, told Maclean’s he had no specific comments about the civil suit. But Anvil has addressed similar allegations in the past and considers itself cleared. See here and here.

Background on the massacre an on Anvil’s alleged involvement can be found here and here.

The Canadian Centre for International Justice is part of the Canadian Association Against Impunity. Their press release announcing the suit can be found here.

Anvil Mining is incorporated in Canada. It has offices in Montreal and Perth, Australia, and is listed on stock exchanges in both countries.

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