By SARAFINA CHRISTOPHER

The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has initiated an investigation into an alleged abandonment of Nigerian miners by a Chinese mining company in the Central African Republic (CAR).

The Embassy made this known in a statement on Friday in Abuja.

It said that the probe was in response to a social media video depicting Nigerian miners allegedly abandoned by a Chinese mining enterprise in CAR.

According to the statement, the Embassy attaches great importance to this matter and has initiated an immediate investigation, which continues to ascertain the facts.

It also said that the Chinese government had consistently mandated that all Chinese enterprises and citizens operating abroad strictly comply with local laws and regulations.

“The Chinese side will urge the involved companies to address this matter appropriately,

“We will maintain close communication with Nigerian authorities throughout the investigation, and work together to safeguard the lawful rights and interests of citizens of both nations,” the statement added. (NAN)