Police Arrest Three Chinese Nationals and Zambian Security Guard Over Copper Theft on the Copperbelt

Police on the Copperbelt have arrested three Chinese nationals and a Zambian security guard in connection with the theft of 470 plates of copper cathodes belonging to Blackswan Limited Mining Company, a Chinese-owned and operated firm.

According to reports, the suspects allegedly hijacked a truck transporting the copper and diverted it to a private residence, prompting the company to offer a $20,000 reward for its safe return. The truck was later recovered at the Blackswan premises by police.

Those arrested include Mike Chan, a 29-year-old Chinese national serving as Chief Security Officer; Mei Hua and Tsui Guanzi, both 55-year-old Chinese nationals employed as blast furnace operators; and Ethan Musonda, a 25-year-old Zambian security guard from Green Shield Security Company.

Sources indicate that the copper was being transported by Petrologistics using a truck bearing registration numbers T720EAF and T696EBQ.

No official statement has been released, as Copperbelt Commissioner of Police Pethias Siandenge was on leave. In line with protocol, Deputy Police Commanding Officer Edwin Kaluba must await the Commissioner’s return before issuing a report.

Meanwhile, Eric Shen, CEO of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, requested additional details before commenting on the matter but has not responded since.

This incident is one of many cases of copper theft on the Copperbelt.