Rights Commission demands probe into Mufumbwe miners killings

The Human Rights Commission is calling for thorough investigations into the killing of two artisanal miners in Mufumbwe District of North Western Province.

Commission spokesperson Mwelwa Muleya demanded that the perpetrators of the grave violation of the right to life to face due process of the law.

In a statement issued in Lusaka on Monday, Muleya stated that this should be done in line with Article 12 of the Constitution of Zambia, Chapter 1 of the Laws of Zambia and other written laws and procedures.
“The violent clash between the informal miners and the security personnel at Kinkonge Gold Mine in Mufumbwe District of North-Western Province that resulted into deaths and injuries on 6th July 2025, is deeply concerning,” he said.

Muleya stated that the Human Rights Commission was calling for restrain and calm to avoid aggravating the situation.

He emphasized that the loss of lives was deeply regrettable and thorough investigations into the incident should be conducted to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths as well as prevent disproportionate use of force and protect lives in future operations.

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“The right to life is so sacred and fundamental that its protection must be prioritised in all circumstances, especially during law enforcement,” Muleya stated.

He said the safety and lives of police and other security officers was also paramount and that the Commission condemned the attack on Law Enforcement Officers, which resulted into injuries.

Muleya appealed to the informal and unlicensed miners to heed the Government call for them to vacate the mining area and engage in constructive dialogue in order to find a lasting solution to illegal mining.

“Meanwhile, the Commission is calling on the deployed Law Enforcement Officers to strictly adhere to due process and the Rule of Law in addressing illegal mining activities in order to prevent any harm and respect human rights and dignity,” he said.

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