The hills around Rubaya were controlled by Mai Mai Niatura, an armed group that was supposed to be integrated in FARDC (governmental forces). Now the area is controlled by FARDC and the Mai Mai Niatura hide in the bush around the hills due to the failure of the integration procedure. The Mai Mai "Tango 4" regiment of colonel Habarughira used to control the area and to impose taxes creating illegal and mobile checkpoints. They didn't sell minerals. They simply imposed taxes on those who did. Keeping the borders under control or knowing the corridors between these countries is vital for the traffic of minerals.