Libyan officials have dismantled an underground gold mining network which involved nationals from China, Chad, and Niger, media reports said.

The operation of the mining network was spearheaded by a Libyan.

The operation of the network was conducted in stark violation of regulations, without the knowledge or approval of local authorities.

During the decisive crackdown, five individuals were arrested, including the Libyan leader of the operation and four foreign nationals. The mining sites, characterized by shallow rectangular pools reminiscent of Olympic swimming pools, revealed a trove of black and gold metal nuggets and ingots, reported BNN Network.