Rongxing Investments Director Detained for Illegal Mining Operations
By Lillian Kalaba
The Director at Rongxing Investments in Chambeshi on the Copperbelt has been detained by police for illegally operating a closed mine.
This was after Rongxing Mine illegally resumed operations immediately after it was closed by the government.
Police and Copperbelt Permanent Secretary Lawrence Mwanza, who confirmed the arrest to ZNBC News, said the government closed the mine for a second time yesterday for nonstop pollution of the Luela stream, but management continued operating illegally.
Mr. Mwanza said a team of officers from the Mine Safety Department found the mine operating after it was closed by the government, with all its tailing dams leaking effluent into the stream.
He said the named director is detained at Garneton East Police Station and warned that the government will deal sternly with investors flouting environmental laws with impunity.
Water Development Minister Collins Nzovu has also disclosed that all aquatic life in the Luela stream has been killed due to the pollution.
Meanwhile, Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo said he will personally ensure that the mine is monitored by all the relevant wings of government so that it does not continue polluting the environment.
