A new ban on mining in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo could provide breathing space for fundamental reforms to resolve conflict and instability in the mineral-rich area but protection of civilians must remain paramount…said campaign group Global Witness... Recent atrocities include the rape by suspected rebels of about 200 women in a cluster of villages…Global Witness expressed concern that the ban could be followed by a military crackdown…Strong measures must be taken to prevent abuses during any new military actions aimed at imposing the government's authority in the east...Global Witness is urging electronics manufacturers to take more responsibility for the minerals used in their products and ensure that they are not indirectly funding conflict. [Daniel Balint-Kurti, head of Global Witness's Congo campaign said]: "The new U.S. law is a very positive step...“