ILLEGAL MINERS ORDERED OUT OF LOWER ZAMBEZI

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Posted by admin on December 3, 2025 at 1:08 AM

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The Zambia Army has ordered illegal miners operating in the Lower Zambezi, Siavonga District, to vacate the area immediately or face forced eviction.

Army Commander Lieutenant General Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele issued the directive during a tour of the Moomba River line, warning that security forces are prepared to enforce the order nationwide if miners fail to comply.

Lt Gen Zyeele described illegal mining as an economic crime that undermines national development and security.

“This is an economic crime and we will not tolerate it at all. We have spoken enough, and it appears some people are suggesting we change methods of communicating to enforcement of brutal measures. Those who are acting with impunity are actually inviting lifelong memories of the military into their lives,” he cautioned.

He stressed that illegal mining often attracts other criminal activities and vowed that the Army, together with other security wings, will protect Zambia’s natural resources and bring offenders to justice.

Siavonga District Commissioner Geoffrey Jakopo welcomed the directive, pledging to work closely with the Defence and Security wings.

“We appreciate the efforts of the Zambia Army and other security forces in combating illegal mining, poaching, and human trafficking in our district. Those who refuse to leave will face the full force of the law,” he said.

Lt Gen Zyeele was accompanied by ZAF Commander Lt Gen Oscar Msitu Nyoni, senior officers from the Zambia Army and Air Force, as well as representatives from the Zambia Police and Immigration Department.