KCM dismisses two employees, suspends others

By Mwila Nsofu

Konkola Copper Mines –KCM- has suspended some employees following an investigation by an independent Zambian firm into significant copper concentrate losses.

Preliminary findings suggest that the losses were the result of collusion between certain employees within the organisation and external parties.

In response to these findings, the company has suspended the implicated employees to allow for a thorough investigation.

And KCM says it is committed to ensuring that all individuals involved are provided a fair hearing, with due process followed in accordance with company policies and legal requirements.

KCM’s Chief Operating Officer, MALCOLM MEWETT says due to significant losses of copper concentrate during the liquidation period, and continuing after the resumption of operations, the mining firm commissioned an independent forensic investigation across the organisation.

Mr. MEWETT says the investigation has revealed that these losses resulted from collusion between several employees across various departments and external stakeholders.

In a statement issued to ZNBC news by KCM Chief Corporate Officer JOHN KUNDA, Mr. MEWETT said the established processes were compromised, putting the organisation at considerable risk.

Meanwhile, in a separate incident, the company recently thwarted an attempt by a truck driver, in collaboration with two KCM employees, to steal 33 thousand litres of mining solvent.

The employees involved have since been dismissed.

KCM says it takes theft and misconduct seriously, as these actions undermine business principles.

The company is also pursuing all necessary legal actions to identify and prosecute those involved in the unlawful activities.