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The Federation of Small Scale Mining Association of Zambia (FSSMAZ) has strongly condemned the conduct of police officers in Mufumbwe, accusing them of sparking the violent clashes that led to the loss of lives.
FSSMAZ president, Joseph Mwansa, in a telephone interview with Zambia Monitor said no amount of material wealth — including gold — should ever justify the taking of human life.
“As the Federation of Small Scale Mining Association of Zambia, we unequivocally condemn the actions of the police which resulted in the tragic loss of lives. The use of excessive force, including beatings and killings, is unacceptable,” Mwansa said.
He stressed that the violence was triggered by the conduct of the police and called for calm, accountability, and an immediate, impartial investigation into the incident.
“The root cause of the riots was the police’s conduct, which ignited the unrest. We cannot justify the loss of life over material possessions like gold. Life is irreplaceable, and as a nation, we must prioritise kindness, empathy, and understanding,” he added.
The federation has since urged authorities to exercise restraint in handling disputes and called on local communities to remain peaceful.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic events that unfolded and appeal to everyone to promote peace and unity. To the authorities, we stress the importance of accountability and a thorough, independent investigation. May God guide and protect us all during this difficult time,” Mwansa said.
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