9 Chinese nationals killed in attack on gold mining site in Central African Republic

By Muhammed Enes Calli

ISTANBUL (AA) - At least nine Chinese nationals were killed and two others wounded Sunday when armed men stormed a Chinese-operated gold mining site in the Central African Republic.

"We have counted nine bodies and two wounded," said the mayor of Bambari, Abel Matchipata, according to AFP.

Matchipata confirmed that the victims were Chinese workers at a site run by the Gold Coast Group located 25 kilometers (about 16 miles) from his town.

The bodies of the workers have been reportedly transported to the capital, Bangui.

The attack began around 5 a.m. local time when the gunmen reportedly overpowered the site’s guards and opened fire.

Local authorities said they are searching for the assailants.

The Chinese embassy has yet to comment on the attack.