A new report has warned that a scheme set up to ensure mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo does not fuel conflict is being abused to launder tainted minerals.
Global Witness says companies - including Apple, Tesla and Intel - are relying on the due diligence scheme to source minerals that are widely used in electronic equipment such as mobile phones, computers and automotive and aeronautical systems.
Global Witness however says it has uncovered compelling evidence that the International Tin Supply Chain Initiative is failing.
It says the scheme is being used to launder tin, tantalum and tungsten from mines controlled by militia or where children work.