Monterrico Metals, which is controlled by Zijin Mining Group, is facing a multimillion-dollar legal bill amid accusations that 31 protesters at its Peruvian copper deposit, Rio Blanco, were tortured during protests in 2005.
In a case that highlights the risks resources-hungry Chinese companies face when buying assets in politically unstable countries, human rights lawyers say that in July and August 2005, before Zijin bought its 45 per cent stake in Monterrico, 31 protesters marched against the construction of the Rio Blanco mine at a remote site in Peru.
The claimants said one protester was shot dead, while two others were injured by gunfire and two women were sexually assaulted. Others were handcuffed and blindfolded.
Richard Meeran, a partner at law firm Leigh Day & Co representing the claimants, believes some of Monterrico's staff were involved in the tortures.
'Witnesses allege the claimants were unlawfully detained and tortured at the mine by the Peruvian police and that the mine co-ordinated, briefed and gave assistance to the police regarding these human rights violations,' Meeran said.
'The claimants also allege Monterrico was responsible for safety at the mine and failed to prevent their abuse.'