NATION REPORTER
GOVERNMENT has expressed regret over the fatal shooting of unarmed civilians at the Kikonge Gold Mine in Mufumbwe by security forces, but insists the incident occurred in the context of violent confrontation that endangered officers’ lives.
Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwiimbu, in a ministerial statement to Parliament, clarified that the recent killings of artisanal miners cannot be equated with the abolition of the death penalty.
“You cannot abolish killing by security forces,” Mr Mwiimbu said. “The abolition of the death sentence relates to a matter that goes to court, and a person is convicted. What happened in Kikonge was a confrontation. The officers were under imminent threat and the law allows the use of live ammunition when lives are in danger.”
The minister confirmed that three civilians who were shot in the legs during the unrest later died from their injuries.
He added that 12 officers were also injured, with two still hospitalised.
Mr Mwiimbu revealed that on July 3, illegal miners estimated at over 50, 000 mobilised and charged at police officers despite warnings of live shots and the use of tear gas.
“I personally toured the area on July 6 alongside the Minister of Defence and North-Western Province Minister. What we saw was lawlessness at a scale that posed a serious security threat. Our priority is the safety of all citizens, and we will not tolerate anarchy,” he said.
He said Government had begun using drones to monitor activity in Kikonge and that the area would soon be zoned off as a restricted security zone to prevent further encroachment.
Mr Mwiimbu’s statement triggered heated debate in Parliament, with several MPs challenging the government’s handling of the matter.
Kamfinsa MP Christopher Kang’ombe questioned whether the measures had failed, saying: “The number of people who have died is alarming. Our people are engaging in mining out of desperation to earn a living.”
In response, Mr Mwiimbu said, “We have not failed. What has failed us is the failed leadership of some opposition figures who thrive on confusion and have mobilised people to flood Mufumbwe from all over the country. I am not blaming anyone, but those who are guilty are the ones shouting.”
Bangweulu MP Anthony Kasandwe pressed the minister on the contradiction between abolishing the death penalty and the recent killings.
“No sane government sends police to kill its own people,” Mr Kasandwe said.
Mr Mwiimbu responded: “The abolition of the death sentence relates to court convictions, not situations where officers act in self-defence during riots. Let us not confuse the two.”
Roan MP Joel Chibuye and Lunte MP Mutotwe Kafwaya also questioned the rising number of civilian deaths in police operations, urging the government to address root causes rather than respond with force.
Mr Mwiimbu insisted that the UPND government remains responsible and committed to order and safety.
“We regret what happened in Kikonge. But let’s be honest under the previous regime, many innocent people were killed and to this day, no apology has ever been issued. For us, we take responsibility and act decisively to prevent further loss of life.”
The government said efforts were underway to completely seal off the gold-rich Kikonge zone, and a crackdown on illegal mining operations would continue.
