JUSTICE AND LABORS: uspect arrested for corruption and extortion at a gold mine
Following reports of illegal practices within a gold mining company in Atacora, a ministerial investigation led to the arrest of an individual accused of selling job openings. The government reaffirms its zero-tolerance policy against corruption in the workplace.
The net is tightening around corruption networks linked to the job market in the northern region of the country. Following alerts regarding alleged acts of extortion, racketeering, and illegal wage deductions within a gold mining company based in the Atacora Department, the Ministry of Budget and Civil Service immediately launched an administrative investigation.
Investigations conducted by the relevant authorities quickly confirmed the presence of networks demanding money from job seekers in exchange for employment. An initial arrest has already been made: one of the suspects was taken into custody and handed over to the judicial system to answer for his actions.
In an official statement released on September 10, 2026, the ministry strongly condemned these practices, declaring job selling, corruption, and any arbitrary salary deductions completely illegal.
The ministry reiterated that the recruitment process in Benin must remain strictly transparent, fair, and based solely on merit. No fees or financial compensation may be demanded from job applicants.
To clean up the labor market and dismantle predatory networks, the government calls on all workers and citizens to report any irregularities or extortion attempts. Victims and witnesses are encouraged to contact the authorities through two secure channels:
Local Administration: directly at the Departmental Directorates of Labor and Civil Service.
National Platforms: by calling the toll-free number 155 or reporting online at the dedicated platform denonciation.bj.
The government reiterates its commitment to protecting workers’ rights, ensuring the integrity of hiring procedures, and prosecuting anyone who violates labor laws.
