The government of Congo has raised concerns about Apple's potential use of 'blood minerals' from a conflict zone in the country. International lawyers representing Congo have sent letters to Apple's CEO and its French subsidiary, questioning the tech giant's knowledge and monitoring of its supply chains.
The minerals in question are extracted from mines in Congo's troubled east, where numerous armed rebel groups operate, some accused of grave human rights violations including mass killings of civilians. The lawyers challenge Apple to demonstrate how it ensures ethical practices in its sourcing.
