Zambia Army chief, Zyeele, says ‘foreign nationals’ target of his remarks in ‘extermination’ comments

Zambia Army Commander, Geoffrey Zyeele, says he regrets that his remarks that troops deployed to eradicate illegal mining would “exterminate” and “fumigate” illegal miners have been taken out of context.

The remarks, made earlier this week in Kabwe, have sparked wide condemnation, with many saying the words were too strong.

Speaking when he paid a courtesy call on Copperbelt Minister, Elisha Matambo, in Ndola on Thursday, General Zyeele clarified that the main target of the operation was to curb and eradicate foreign nationals who have entered the country illegally and have begun conducting illegal mining in various areas.

“These foreign nationals are also in possession of dangerous weapons posing danger in our country,” General Zyeele maintained.

The Army Commander and his entourage are on the Copperbelt Province on matters relating to national security, with illegal mining high on the agenda.

Matambo paid tribute to President Hakainde Hichilema for creating a peaceful and enabling environment, which he said was one of the key ingredients for promoting economic development aimed at improving the living standards of citizens.

“We pledge to continue supporting Zambia Army and other security wings in curbing illegal mining and other bad vices in our society,” he stated.

Matambo cautioned that illegal mining, if left unchecked, could lead to a situation where citizens may not be able to access various services in the country.

He highlighted that President Hichilema always emphasized four principles: mining must be formal, legal, safe, and secured.

“These principles must never be compromised. As Copperbelt Provincial Administration, we applaud Zambia Army Commander General Geoffrey Zyeele and other security wings for walking the talk of our vision carrier, the Republican President Hichilema, on issues of peace and national security,” he said.

He added that the government would continue supporting the Army Commander and other security wings in efforts to clean up the country and eliminate bad vices in society.

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