Security Forces Raid Orano’s Offices in Niger

Niamey — French Uranium Miner Orano Faces Security Forces Raid

Security forces in Niger have searched the offices of French uranium miner Orano’s local subsidiaries, seizing phones and equipment, two sources say.

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Raid Follows Seizure of Somair Mine

The raid comes months after the French company said authorities had seized control of its Somair mine.

Local Director Arrested

One of the sources, who is close to Orano, also said on Tuesday local director Ibrahim Courmo had been arrested.

Lack of Information

Orano said it had “very limited” information on the situation because it had lost operational control of its subsidiaries in December.

“On Monday May 5 it appears that Nigerien law enforcement officers intervened at the headquarters of the Somair, Cominak, and Orano Mining Niger subsidiaries in Niamey, with equipment seized,” the company said a statement.

“We are very concerned about the situation, as we have not been able to contact the Orano representative in Niger at this stage.”