According to Mining News Pro - As of April 22, it has suspended all but critical operations at the Montepuez ruby mine in Mozambique.

It took the decision after attacks on security teams at the mine and recent episodes of illegal mining activity on the concession. It noted that, as part of the government`s COVID-19 response relating to overcrowded prisons, prisoners were released in the town of Montepuez, including about 150 illegal miners.

The mine has introduced additional security measures, increased the size of the security team and deployed patrol dogs. In addition, trained members of its security service providers have been equipped with firearms.

Gemfields has suspended all expansionary capital expenditure at the operation for the foreseeable future.