France, Feb. 28 -- French prosecutors have closed a case filed by Democratic Republic ofCongoaccusing Apple subsidiaries of using conflict minerals, notably in the unstable eastern region bordering Rwanda, in its supply chain.

Congo filed criminal complaintsagainst Apple subsidiaries in France and Belgium in December, accusing them of "illegal and even criminal export and delivery" of minerals from the country via Rwanda.

Apple said at the time that it strongly disputed the allegations and had told its suppliers they must adhere to the "highest industry standards" and not use the minerals in question, sourced fromCongoor Rwanda.

The Paris public prosecutor's office dismissed the complaint on February 18 saying allegations of money laun...