Police Arrest 79 After Miners Clash with Officers in Chingola District

One person has died and several others injured after violent riots erupted in the copper-rich Chingola district, police have confirmed.

The unrest began when small-scale miners, known locally as "jerabos", were ordered to vacate the Senseli Open Pit mine by Monday's deadline.

Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga said 79 suspects had been arrested following widespread violence and looting that targeted shops, public infrastructure and private businesses across three townships.

The deceased was identified as 22-year-old Bwalya Nsanda, who died from a gunshot wound to the chest. Three other civilians were hospitalised with injuries, including a 13-year-old boy shot in the hand.

Seven police officers were also injured during clashes with the rioters, who vandalised a police post and set fire to road construction equipment.

The jerabos had been working illegally at the Senseli mine and were demanding clarity about their future after being displaced, saying their livelihoods were now at stake.

Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo condemned the violence, revealing that government officials had been in talks with mine owners to find a legal solution for the miners.

"We are not going to allow lawlessness," Mr Matambo said, warning that all those involved in the looting would be prosecuted.

He emphasised that any future mining arrangements must be legal, with proper tax payments and safety measures in place. Recent weeks had seen several deaths at the pit, he added.

The situation in Chingola has now been brought under control, with police maintaining a presence to prevent further disturbances.