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Eight illegal miners have reportedly died after being buried alive in Chingola’s copper pits.
The tragic incident occurred when the earth collapsed on them at the Cop 5 Dump Site, owned by Konkola Copper Mines (KCM).
Among the deceased are six family members who lost their lives while scavenging for copper ore.
Read more: Developing Story: 7 confirmed trapped at Macrolink Mine, as rescue efforts intensify
Copperbelt Police Chief,Peacewell Mweemba, confirmed in a statement on Wednesday that seven bodies have been recovered so far, while efforts continue to retrieve the eighth.
“According to our report, as the miners were working, the earth collapsed unexpectedly. They were unable to escape and were buried before reaching safety,” Mweemba said.
Other miners on the site attempted to rescue their trapped colleagues but were unsuccessful.
The retrieved bodies were taken to Nchanga North General Hospital mortuary for post-mortem examination, while two survivors are receiving treatment at the same hospital and are reported to be in stable condition.
Police have opened an inquiry into the incident and conducted an inspection of the scene.
The retrieved bodies showed minor visible injuries or none at all. Further details are expected as investigations continue.
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