By ALICE NACHILEMBE
The government has officially ended the recovery operation at Sensele Mine, nine months after the tragic accident that occurred on November 30, 2023. Despite efforts, only 27 out of the 38 believed trapped bodies have been recovered.
Minister of Mines and Mineral Development Paul Kabuswe announced the conclusion of the operation during a press briefing, addressing family members of the victims whose bodies remain unfound. He acknowledged the challenges and risks faced by the recovery team, citing unstable soil conditions that posed a danger to searchers.
Kabuswe expressed government’s commitment to preventing similar tragedies through measures to curb illegal mining. He urged youths to refrain from illegal mining, promising reforms to ensure safer mining practices.
Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo disclosed that each affected family will receive K10,000 from President Hakainde Hichilema. He expressed gratitude to the President, Vice-President, and stakeholders for their support since the accident.
The recovery operation has been closed, with 27 bodies retrieved and one person found alive. The government’s efforts have provided closure for some families, but 11 victims remain unfound.
