The Globe and Mail reports in its Tuesday edition that the European Union is imposing sanctions on Rwanda's only gold refinery and its top mining executive for allegedly dealing in smuggled Congolese minerals. The Globe's Geoffrey York writes that the EU is sanctioning the Gasabo gold refinery on accusations of illegally trading in trafficked gold from sites controlled by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel militia in eastern Congo, where Rwanda has reportedly sent thousands of troops to support the rebels. It is also imposing an asset freeze and travel ban on Francis Kamanzi, chief executive officer of Rwanda's minerals board, on allegations that he is responsible for exploiting the armed conflict through the illicit exploitation and trade of conflict minerals. In total, the EU imposed sanctions on nine individuals, including eight Rwandan and M23 commanders. Thousands of civilians have been killed in the M23 offensive in Congo and millions have been forced to flee their homes. The rebels have continued their offensive since then, pushing westward and advancing closer to a high-grade tin mine owned by Alphamin Resources. The company is temporarily halting its mining operations at the Bisie tin mine and evacuating its staff.