ZAMBIA Army Commander Lieutenant General Geoffrey Zyeele has warned illegal miners in Southern Province, that the Army will not relent to bring the practice to a stop.
Lt. Gen Zyeele says supply of illegal minerals is a threat not only to national security but also socio economic development.
ZANIS reports that Lt. Gen. Zyeele was speaking in Choma when he paid a courtesy call on Southern Province Minister Credo Nanjuwa.
“Illegal mining sounds like a simple structure but under the lines of these activities, it funds crimes, it oils organised crimes, disrupts the economy and changes the social structure of the citizenry,” Lt. Gen. Zyeele said.
The Army Commander said his delegation is in the Province to engage with the traditional leaders, the church and local civic leaders on the need to stop illegal mining in the region especially in Mapatizya area of Zimba and Sinazongwe Districts.
He further disclosed that Kalomo District is another district that has been attacked by foreigners conducting illegal mining activities.
“We are aware of illegal mining activities in various districts and our job is to contain, reduce and identify these activities and put a stop to it for national security,” he said.
Lt. Gen. Zyeele also disputed social media claims of the Zambia Army taking over the job of the Minister of Mines adding that the Army is here to maintain national security.
Meanwhile, Southern Province Minister Credo Nanjuwa has commended Zambia Army for working with Provincial Administration in curbing illegal mining activities.
Mr Nanjuwa said illegal mining will never be tolerated by provincial administration in any way.
“With your coming to the province, you have our support and we are with you in the fight against illegal mining.
“President Hakainde Hichilema has made it clear that illegalities in any section should not be tolerated and that is the direction that we are taking as a Province,” Mr Nanjuwa said.
The Minister also indicated that Southern Province is ready to collaborate with Zambia Army in the agricultural sector recognising the direction that the defence forces has taken to engage in agriculture.
