The northeast corner of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is home to one of Africa's richest goldfields. This report documents widespread human rights abuses linked to ruthless efforts by foreign armies and armed groups to control two key gold mining areas: Mongbwalu and Durba. In their battles for gold, armed groups carried out widespread ethnic slaughter, torture and rape leaving more than 60,000 civilians dead in this remote corner of Congo. Armed group leaders together with their local business allies used the proceeds from the sale of gold to gain access to money, guns, and power. In 2003 alone nearly $60 million of tainted gold was smuggled out of Congo to Uganda, destined for the global gold markets in Europe and elsewhere. These funds enriched only the fortunate few and left many others impoverished and abused. Multinational mining companies also sought to start gold mining and exploration activities in this volatile area. One such company, AngloGold Ashanti, one of the largest gold producers in the world, launched a gold exploration program in Mongbwalu, an area controlled by an armed group responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity. In return for assurances of security and access to the mining site, AngloGold Ashanti established a relationship with this murderous armed group which in turn obtained financial, material and political benefits There will be no peace in Congo unless those who are involved in the exploitation of its natural resources make respect for human rights a fundamental consideration in their business activities. Multinational companies need to ensure that no support of any kind is provided to armed groups responsible for serious human rights crimes. Congolese citizens deserve to benefit from the country's rich resources, not be cursed by them.