Mali’s government has seized three tons of gold worth $245 million from Barrick Gold’s Loulo-Gounkoto mine amid an escalating ownership dispute. The seizure, following the arrest of company executives and a warrant for CEO Mark Bristow, has forced Barrick to suspend operations at the mine, which produces 14% of its global output. The conflict stems from Mali’s new mining codes, with the military government demanding an increased stake beyond its current 20% ownership and claiming $500 million in back taxes.