Minister Foresees Three-Month Search for Trapped Miners in Zambia

Elisha Matambo, Copperbelt Minister, has revealed that the ongoing search for trapped miners within tunnel one in Chingola is anticipated to stretch over a period of two to three months.

Matambo emphasized the extended timeline, citing safety concerns that impede the direct search for the trapped miners using the existing tunnels.

Explaining the approach, he highlighted that employing excavators to drill is deemed the safest method to extract the small-scale miners who have been trapped for the past 20 days.

However, he provided a glimmer of hope, noting that progress has been made in the search for individuals in sites two and three. Mr. Matambo anticipated that within seven days, the team would successfully retrieve those trapped in these locations.

During a press briefing in Chingola, Hon Matambo underscored the exhaustive efforts of the rescue team, working tirelessly day and night to expedite the operation.

He attributed delays in reaching the trapped miners at tunnel two to the ingress of water caused by recent rains, hampering the team’s advancement.

Detailing the situation within tunnel three, Matambo stated that despite rescuing 12 miners from the believed 16 trapped, efforts persist to locate the remaining individuals.

Expressing gratitude, Matambo acknowledged the support rendered by the Vice President through the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit, along with all individuals who have extended their support to the affected families and the rescue team.

In an impassioned plea, the Minister called upon sympathizers to continue aiding both the affected families and the rescue team, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to ensure the successful completion of the recovery mission.

The incident occurred 20 days ago when over 31 miners found themselves trapped due to the ingress of rainwater into their tunnels.

As of now, the retrieval effort has resulted in the recovery of 12 miners, among whom 11 were found deceased, leaving one survivor amidst the tragedy.