By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
The Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development has suspended operations at two Chinese-operated mines in Kasempa for illegally processing gold and copper ore.
The affected mines, Sino Octascone Mine and Ken Reliable, were found to be operating without the mandatory mineral processing licences.
The ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Hapenga Kabeta, led an inspection with officials from the Mine Safety Department that uncovered substantial stockpiles of gold and copper ore ready for processing on the premises.
“Investigations revealed that the mines had been conducting unauthorised processing of minerals for an unspecified period,” Dr. Kabeta stated.
“When questioned, mine officials failed to provide satisfactory explanations and relevant documents for their operation.”
He confirmed that the sources of the ore stockpiles will be further investigated, warning that any related illegalities would be “sternly dealt with.”
In response, the ministry has seized the ore stockpiles and directed law enforcement to secure the materials until the companies can present proper documentation.