The government has denied media claims that eighteen illegal miners were shot by police at the Kikonge Gold Site in Mufumbwe District, North-Western Province.
Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister Jack Mwiimbu called these reports very misleading and concerning, saying it is not true that police killed 18 miners at the site.
Mr. Mwiimbu explained that only two illegal miners were killed, one was hurt, and eleven police officers were also injured during a fight with angry illegal miners two days ago.
He spoke during a press conference at Solwezi Airport, with Defence Minister Ambrose Lufuma and North-Western Province Minister Robert Lihefu, after checking the Kikonge Gold Site.
Mr. Lufuma showed worry that some foreign people are causing the rise in illegal gold mining, warning that if this continues, it could create problems for the country, like what has happened in other places.
He emphasized that all illegal miners need to leave the area right away, as the government will send defense and security forces to protect the national resource and ensure peace and safety.
At the same time, Provincial Minister Mr. Lihefu asked all illegal miners to exit the area to bring back order.
He mentioned that he will not put up with the chaos that has come to define illegal gold mining in the province.
