… BY SMALL-SCALE MINERS IN CHIWEMPALA
Police in Chingola have foiled an attempted riot by small-scale miners, commonly referred to as “Jerabos,” in Chiwempala township.
The agitated stone dealers are protesting the government’s clarification that Senseli Mine has not been handed over to them, contrary to earlier remarks attributed to Chingola Member of Parliament Chipoka Mulenga.
Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Paul Kabuswe, stated that Senseli Mine remains under private ownership and that the government is working with the proprietors to formalize its operations in line with national mining regulations.
Mr. Kabuswe further emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting legal and safe mining practices, adding that security wings are actively involved in maintaining peace as the regularization process unfolds.
He clarified that Mr. Mulenga’s recent visit to the site was aimed at urging miners to operate within the law and not to sanction any illegal activities.
The statement comes in the wake of threats by some youths to riot in protest, demanding access to the mine.
Police have since been deployed in Chiwempala to prevent unrest. Several shops in the area have closed for fear of looting.
This incident follows an earlier clash in April when 62 illegal miners were arrested during protests that led to widespread looting, with hunger cited as the primary cause of the unrest.
— Iwave FM
