Small Scale Miners in Kitwe Protest Denied Access To Mining Pit
Written by Mafken FM Newsroom on 3 October 2024
By Respite Kaoma
Some small scale miners at Green Mountain in Kitwe district on the Copperbelt in the early hours of today, ran berserk and protested the alleged denying them of access to the mining pit.
The miners blocked the road along Kandabwe St. Anthony area in Kitwe.
Mafken news team visited the scene and found heavy police presence, who later managed to control the situation.
Meanwhile, National Union of Miners and Allied Workers (NUMAW) President Saul Simujika has condemned the behaviour of the small-scale miners in Kitwe District, who allegedly entered Mopani Copper Mines (MCM) premises with machinery to conduct unauthorized mining activities.
In an exclusive interview, Mr. Simujika emphasized the urgent need to address the rising issue of illegal mining, describing it as a situation that is spiralling out of control.
He warned that these activities could jeopardize the lifespan of the mines and lead to significant property loss.
Mr. Simujika called on the Ministry of Mines to implement measures that would effectively curb illegal mining, highlighting the potential consequences if the situation remains unchecked.
