PERCEPTIONS ET DYNAMIQUES DES HOMICIDES LIÉS À L’ORPAILLAGE ILLÉGAL À ZOUAN-HOUNIEN

ABSTRACT : In the context of expanding illegal gold mining in West Africa, this study explores recurring homicides in Zouan-Hounien (Côte d’Ivoire), often overlooked by research. It aims to uncover the social, ritual and strategic logics behind these extreme forms of violence. A quantitative and qualitative field study was conducted among 75 local actors selected through purposive sampling, using surveys, interviews and observations. Findings reveal that killings are socially rationalized acts tied to mystical beliefs, economic rivalries and informal regulation, amid weak state presence. Far from incidental, these homicides reflect a moral economy of violence. The study calls for security policies rooted in local recognition and intercultural mediation.

Keywords: Illegal gold mining, homicides, Côte d’Ivoire, ritual violence, community security, local governance