17 foreign nationals, including 16 Tanzanians and one Malawian, were intercepted by Department of Immigration officers in Chingola on Saturday, as they allegedly attempted to travel to Mufumbwe District for illegal gold mining activities.
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The group was apprehended at a checkpoint while aboard an LG Bus destined for Solwezi, North-Western Province.
Immigration officials stated that the individuals initially entered Zambia posing as legitimate visitors.
However, subsequent investigations uncovered their alleged true intention: to engage in illicit gold extraction in the Kikonge area of Mufumbwe.
During the apprehension, authorities confiscated two metal-detecting machines.
“These instruments are commonly used in mining activities, particularly to detect the presence of precious metals like gold. This discovery is a clear indication of the nature of their planned activities,” the department said in a statement.
The 17 foreign nationals are currently detained by Immigration officials.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba July 9, 2025
