62 arrested in Chingola after violent protests, as illegal miners reportedly claim hunger as reason for looting shops

Police have confirmed the arrest of 62 illegal miners who participated in violent protests demanding access to a copper dump pit in Chingola’s Chiwempala township.

Zambia Police Spokesperson, Rae Hamoonga, confirmed that Chiwempala Police Station received reports of riotous behavior at around 07:20 hours on Thursday, as illegal miners attempted to access an open pit for mining activities.

“However, they were confronted by Zambia National Service (ZNS) officers, who secured the area,” Hamoonga explained.

He added that the miners, citing hunger as their main grievance, became angered by the disruption to their livelihoods.

In response, the group moved to Chiwempala Market, where they began looting shops and other business premises.

As the situation escalated, more illegal miners and members of the public from surrounding areas joined in, leading to looting of businesses in Antelope, Maiteneke, Twatasha, Mikiloni, and Lulamba.

Read more:just-in-illegal-miners-protest-in-chingola-demand-access-to-mine-site-video

A bakery was also among the establishments looted.

Police swiftly intervened, restoring order and making 62 arrests.

These individuals are said to be currently in police custody.

“The situation is now under control, and normalcy has been restored,” Hamoonga confirmed.

He urged the public to refrain from unlawful activities and to allow law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and order.

Further investigations into the incident are ongoing, according to the police.

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