Blockade Disrupts Work at Lulo Mine

(IDEX Online) - Operations at Lucapa's Lulo alluvial diamond mine in Angola are being disrupted by angry locals, who are blockading all entrances to the site.

The protest began yesterday (Monday 3 February). It prevents mine workers from entering or leaving the mine, and is impacting both mining and processing.

In a statement Australia-based Lucapa said community leaders had made "a series of unreasonable demands" but it did not provide details. It indicated that local authorities were responsible for addressing their concerns, rather than Lucapa.

"Discussions are underway between the community leaders and a government delegation including representatives of the regional governor to peacefully end the blockade, however no progress has currently been made," it said.

Lucapa noted that the blockade of its mine, in the Lunda Norte region was "currently peaceful".

There has been some downtime at the processing plant, it said, because workers who live outside the mine gates have been unable to enter, and the blockade has interrupted alluvial mining and kimberlite bulk sampling activities.

"There is a risk the blockade could impact Lulo's Q1 2025 production results if it is not resolved soon as stockpiled gravel is being depleted," it said.

The Lulo mine commands the world's highest price per carat for alluvial diamonds. It is owned by Lucapa (40 per cent), Endiama (32 per cent) and Rosas & Petalas (28 per cent).

Pic of Lulo processing plant courtesy Lucapa.