ONE DEAD, DOZENS INJURED IN CHINGOLA RIOTS AS POLICE ARREST 79 IN SENSELI MINE CLASHES

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Posted by admin on July 31, 2025 at 3:40 AM

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A violent riot erupted in Chingola District on Wednesday following the forced displacement of informal miners, commonly known as Jeraboos, from the Senseli Open Pit. The unrest left one civilian dead, several others injured, and extensive damage to public and private property. According to Police Public Relations Officer Rae Hamoonga, confirmed the riot began when displaced miners, angered by their removal from the site, mobilized in protest across Chiwempala, Lulamba, and Mwaiseni Trading Area when protest quickly turned violent, with looting, vandalism, and attacks on law enforcement officers and that 79 suspects have been arrested and are currently in custody. “The suspects will face charges including Riotous Behaviour, Malicious Damage to Property, Assault on Police Officers, and Theft,” Mr Hamoonga said. He underscored that the riot claimed the life of M’ Bwalya Nsanda (22) of Tula Compound, who was fatally shot in the chest and Three other civilians, including a 13-year-old boy, sustained gunshot and grenade-related injuries. All are receiving treatment at Nchanga North Hospital. He added that Seven police officers were also injured in the line of duty, suffering from stoning, mob beatings, and falls during the chaos. Most are under medical observation. The Mathews Nkhuwa Police Post was vandalized, and 11 vehicles parked at the station were extensively damaged. Two earth-moving machines part of ongoing road works near Chawama Clinic were set ablaze. Looting was reported at several businesses, including Antelope Milling, Mataba Milling, Termites Butchery, and a mobile phone shop. Bags of mealie meal, bicycles, and accessories were among the stolen items, some of which have since been recovered. Mr Hamoonga said calm has been restored, with police maintaining a strong presence in affected areas. Meanwhile Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo condemned the violence, warning that “lawlessness will not be tolerated” and promising swift prosecution of all involve