ZNS Officers Dismissed for Engaging in Illegal Mining at Kasenseli Gold Mine
Three Zambia National Service (ZNS) officers who were assigned to guard Kasenseli gold mine in Mwinilunga, North-Western Province, have been dismissed from their duties after being found engaged in illegal mining activities.
ZNS Commander Maliti Solochi emphasized that any officer found to be involved in illegal gold mining activities at Kasenseli will be dismissed from the service, without any exceptions.
Solochi stated that the gold in Mwinilunga is a national resource and it is the responsibility of ZNS to ensure its protection. He added that the ZNS is committed to preventing illegal mining and would take stern action against any officer who violates the law.
Solochi made these remarks during a visit to Mwinilunga district commissioner Harrison Kamuna.
The ZNS commander acknowledged that the soldiers deployed at the Kasenseli gold mine are under intense temptation from individuals who offer them money to provide access to the mine. However, he assured that the officers are resisting such temptations.
Solochi stated that to put a stop to the rumors of ZNS officers conducting illegal mining, the command will, in consultation with relevant authorities, extend security to all the community pits.
He cautioned the people to be patient since the mine will be opened in a methodical manner, and rushing may cause more harm than good.
Furthermore, Solochi assured the people that Kasenseli’s gold is safe, but they want the troops to be removed from the area to keep it free for everyone.
Going forward, any person who tries to entice the soldiers deployed at the gold mine will be arrested.
And Mwinilunga district commissioner Harrison Kamuna commended ZNS for the discipline displayed by the officers assigned to guard the mine. He urged them to continue safeguarding the mineral resource for the benefit of the country.
