Two illegal miners have died after being trapped when a mining pit collapsed during an illegal mining activity in Lubwe Village in Choma district of Southern Province.

Southern Province Commanding officer Moono Namalongo said the Zambia Police Service in Choma received a report of a mine accident at Maamba Police Station on May 31, 2026, at 22:30 hours.

Mr Namalongo said the accident occurred on the same day at 16:00 hours at Lubwe Village in Chief Cooma’s Chiefdom.

Mr Namalongo said the report was made by Christabel Siamuwele, 28, of Siankodobbo Village who reported that the accident involved her father.

Mr Namalongo identified the deceased person as Jasper Siamuwele, 47, of Chuunga Village and Arnold Munkombwe,48, of Nkungwe B Compound, Maamba, who both died after being trapped when a mining pit collapsed during alleged illegal mining activities.

“The two deceased persons together with other persons not yet identified, were allegedly engaged in illegal aquamarine mining activities in an open pit mine located on the edge of a steep hill in Lubwe Village.

While inside the pit, the mine wall collapsed, trapping the two men beneath the debris. Other people later gathered at the scene and managed to retrieve the bodies,” Mr Namalongo said.

He said police visited the scene and confirmed the incident.

He indicated that the victims sustained fatal injuries as a result of the collapse and no foul play is suspected.

Mr Namalongo said the bodies were later taken to Maamba General Hospital Mortuary, where they are awaiting postmortem examination and burial.

The Bunda Bunda Royal Establishment in Rufunsa District, has praised Velos Mining Limited for considering investing in a copper processing plant in the chiefdom.

Bunda Bunda Royal Establishment Secretary, Chibila Shipanuka expressed happiness with the copper mining investment that Velos Mining Limited is about to open in the area.

Speaking during an Environmental and Social Impact scoping meeting for a proposed mixed-up development in Mpokota village by Velos Mining Limited, Ms Shipanuka said the investment will bring development not only to the chiefdom but the district as a whole.

“As a Chiefdom, we are very happy and proud with Velos Mining Limited for the huge investment that they have brought in our chiefdom, we are very happy and positive that they will do more not only for the chiefdom but Rufunsa as a whole,” she said.

Ms Shipanuka said the Royal Establishment and the subjects acknowledge and appreciate the Social Corporate Responsibility that the company is implementing in Mpokota village, including road and school rehabilitation.

And Rufunsa District Commissioner(DC), Richard Mabena, who was also part of the scoping meeting, said the investment by Velos Mining Limited, will bring development to the area.

Mr Mabena urged residents to take advantage of the investment by forming cooperatives.

He said government is committed to promoting smart mining.

“Your government is committed to improving the livelihoods of its citizens, with this huge investment,” he said.

And Velos Mining Consultant, David Lungu, said the company is conducting an Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) scoping that incorporates stakeholders.

Velos Mining Limited in its continued efforts to involve the people held a Environmental and Social Impact Statement scoping meeting for a proposed mixed-up development in Mpokota village in Bunda Bunda chiefdom, the area for the proposed copper processing plant.

Chief Hamusonde VII of the Lundwe people of Bweengwa in Monze district has joined the nation in mourning the passing of Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV.

Chief Hamusonde described the death of Paramount Chief Mpezeni as a great loss to both the Ngoni people and the nation at large.

The traditional leader said the late Paramount Chief distinguished himself throughout his reign as a champion of culture, unity and peace that earned him admiration and respect from people across Zambia and beyond.

He further said the late traditional leader is a great son of the soil whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

Chief Hamusonde VII extended his condolences to the royal family, the Ngoni Royal Establishment as well as the Nc’wala Organising Committee saying may God comfort them and give them strength during this difficult time.

He has called on Zambians to celebrate the life of Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV for his exemplary leadership and dedicated service rendered to his people and the country.

The late Paramount Chief Mpezeni, who ascended to the throne in 1982, died after an illness in Lusaka at the age of 75.

This is contained in a statement issued to ZANIS in Lusaka by the Publicity Chairperson of the Lwanza Traditional Ceremony under the Hamusonde Royal Establishment, Mike Munkombwe.

Government says it is committed to improving livelihoods and promoting climate resilience in Northern Province.

Northern Province Assistant Secretary, Jordan Mwenya, says this is being done through working with partners such as the Community Climate Solutions Zambia limited, an organization dedicated to empowering local communities in addressing climate change through sustainable practices and innovative solutions.

Speaking during the handover of calves to communities in Chinakila area, Mr Mwenya revealed that last year, the Community Climate Solutions Zambia delivered cattle to communities of Chinakila and Chitimbwa areas which have produced 19 healthy calves which are being passed on to community members.

He disclosed that the initiative is aimed at encouraging and promoting ownership among local communities and helping to improve the living standards of people in Mpulungu District.

“These animals are more than a resource, they present a source of income, a symbol of hope and a testament to our collective efforts to combat climate change and they also embody the spirit of resilience and determination that defines our communities,” he said.

Mr Mwenya urged communities to take care of the calves, nature them and use them as a stepping stone towards a brighter future and also to ensure the animals are integrated into the farming systems and contribute to the prosperity of the households and communities.

He explained that the Community Climate Solutions Zambia is leading the way in restoring Zambia’s Miombo woodlands, working with 25 thousand farmers to plant native trees, improve soil health and reduce carbon emissions by Upto 2 million tonnes annually adding that their efforts will not only restore the ecosystems but also boost rural livelihoods through climate finance.

Mr Mwenya further called on the people and partners to continue working together to restore the environment, empower communities and build a sustainable future for all.

He said the initiative aligns with the national and provincial development plan which prioritize climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, and community empowerment.

And Community Climate Solutions Zambia limited Chief Executive Officer, James Mwanza thanked government for creating an enabling environment for the organization to take part in improving the living conditions of people in Chitimbwa and Chinakila areas of Mpulungu District.

Mr Mwanza said his organization chose to introduce cattle herding to communities in Mpulungu through seven Community Forest Management groups because they are legally recognized institutions and that they represent the households of the areas who are the critical partners in the carbon trading space.

Meanwhile, Chief Chinakila thanked the organization for their initiative  to climate finance and community development.

Chief Chinakila ,who spoke through his representative, Leighton Sichilombo said the organisation’s model demonstrates that economic growth and environmental sustainability can go hand in hand.

Mr Sichilombo assured the organisation that the chiefdom will ensure that communities continue naturing trees, care for the cattle and continue to innovate so that their efforts can bear fruits for generations to come.

The Government has announced that it will no longer commit public resources to rescue operations involving individuals engaged in illegal mining activities.

Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Permanent Secretary, Dr. Hapenga Kabeta, said illegal mining continues to place a heavy burden on government resources whenever accidents occur and rescue efforts are required.

Speaking during a visit to Matala Gold Mine in Mumbwa District, where five small-scale miners were recently rescued after spending 17 days trapped underground following a mine collapse, Dr. Kabeta reiterated the government’s call for miners to operate legally and safely.

“Government has repeatedly emphasized the need for miners to operate in safe, formal, legal and environmentally compliant mining environments,” he said.

Dr. Kabeta stressed that authorities have consistently warned against unlawful mining activities and encouraged miners to obtain the necessary licenses and comply with mining regulations.

He cautioned that individuals who choose to engage in illegal mining will bear the consequences of their actions.

“If a mine collapses on you while conducting illegal mining activities, you are on your own,” Dr. Kabeta warned.

Despite the government’s hardline stance, Dr. Kabeta commended the rescue teams, local communities, and stakeholders who participated in the successful rescue mission at Matala Gold Mine.

He said the incident should serve as a wake-up call to people involved in illegal mining across the country, highlighting the dangers associated with unregulated operations.

Dr. Kabeta reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting responsible and lawful mining practices, urging miners to formalize their operations to protect lives, preserve the environment, and contribute positively to the country’s mining sector.

Former Information Minister Chishimba Kambwili has admitted guilt to a charge of illegally entering Zimbabwe in 2024 after changing his earlier plea of not guilty.

Mr. Kambwili, a former senior member of the Patriotic Front, withdrew his previous plea when he appeared before Lusaka Magistrate George Njobvu.

Following the change of plea, Magistrate Njobvu set June 4, 2026 as the date for judgment in the matter.

The court heard that Mr. Kambwili allegedly crossed into Zimbabwe unlawfully in January 2024 without completing the required exit procedures at the Chirundu Border Control.

The offence is contrary to Section 16(1), read together with Section 56(1), of the Immigration and Deportation Act No. 18 of 2010.

Under Zambian law, any person leaving the country is required to report to an immigration officer and complete clearance formalities before departure.

The Ngoni Royal Establishment has strongly rejected claims by former Petauke Member of Parliament Emmanuel “Jay Jay” Banda that Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV was killed.

Speaking on behalf of the Ngoni Royal Establishment, Senior Chief Nzamane IV described the allegations as false, malicious and misleading.

In a statement, Senior Chief Nzamane said the establishment was deeply concerned by the assertions and urged members of the public to disregard them.

“The Ngoni Royal Establishment refutes these claims in the strongest terms possible. The allegations are false, malicious and misleading,” he said.

Senior Chief Nzamane stated that while the late Paramount Chief was entitled to privacy regarding his medical condition, it was common knowledge that he had been unwell and had been receiving medical treatment before his passing.

He emphasized that there was no basis for suggestions that the revered traditional leader had been killed.

The traditional leader said such statements have the potential to cause unnecessary confusion, distress and speculation during a period of mourning for the Ngoni people and the nation at large.

The Ngoni Royal Establishment has since called on citizens to rely on verified information and respect the dignity of the late Paramount Chief and his family.

Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV, one of Zambia’s most respected traditional leaders, recently passed away after an illness, prompting an outpouring of tributes from across the country and beyond.

The establishment has urged the public to remain united and focused on honouring the life and legacy of the late traditional leader as preparations for his burial and succession process continue.

Senior Advisor to the late Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV, George Zulu, says he does not expect any disputes in the succession process for the next Paramount Chief of the Ngoni people.

Speaking on ZNBC TV1’s Update programme, Zulu said the selection of a successor will follow the established customs, traditions and royal lineage of the Ngoni Royal Establishment.

He explained that the responsibility of identifying and choosing the next traditional leader lies with the royal family elders, who are mandated to ensure that the rightful heir is selected in accordance with tradition.

“There will be no disputes because the process is well guided by the royal family tree and customary procedures that have been followed over the years,” Zulu said.

He urged members of the public and the Ngoni people to remain calm and allow the succession process to unfold naturally without interference.

Zulu also paid tribute to the late Paramount Chief Mpezeni, describing him as a humble, dedicated and selfless leader who served both the Ngoni people and the nation with distinction.

He said he was privileged to have known the late traditional leader from a young age and witnessed firsthand his commitment to leadership and community development.

According to Zulu, messages of condolence continue to pour in from across Zambia and beyond, reflecting the respect, admiration and influence the late Paramount Chief commanded during his reign.

Meanwhile, Security Advisor to the late Paramount Chief, Dr. Solomon Jere, has called for peace, unity and harmony during the mourning period.

Dr. Jere said the late traditional leader deserves a dignified and fitting send-off that reflects his contribution to the Ngoni people and the country.

He urged mourners to maintain the spirit of unity and peaceful coexistence that characterises the annual Nc’wala Traditional Ceremony as they mourn the passing of the revered traditional leader.

Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV’s death has been met with an outpouring of grief from traditional leaders, government officials and members of the public, who have described his passing as a great loss to the nation.

The Food Reserve Agency (FRA) is expected to purchase 16,500 metric tonnes of white grade A maize from farmers in Kalomo district of Southern province.

Kalomo District Commissioner Joshua Sikaduli disclosed this when he officiated at a three day 2026 FRA pre-season training workshop for depot clerks.

 Mr Sikaduli has urged the engaged satellite depot clerks to be orderly, professional and polite in the manner they do this year’s crop marketing season.

He has warned that his office will not tolerate any indiscipline among FRA staff who may disrespect small scale farmers, who bring their produce for sale at the over 50 depots to be established in the district.

‘’Last year we experienced a lot of challenges and I hope the agency has done its planning to avert these precedents. Make sure that all those who are on FISP are allowed to bring ten by 50 kilogram bags of maize to the depots so that they automatically down-pay their obligation in accordance with circular CM 11 of 2024,’’ Mr Sikaduli noted.

FRA has this marketing season officially announced that all farmers who will supply their produce need to either open bank or mobile accounts, where their money will be channeled.

FRA Executive Director Justin Chuunka earlier announced that the maize marketing season is expected to start in June to October this year, across the 1,700 depots across the country, under the collaboration of satellite depot coordinating and integrity committees,.

The Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) has commended the Levy Mwanawasa Regional Centre for Democracy and Good Governance (LMCR) for its ongoing efforts to promote democracy and leadership development in the country.

The Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA), Director General Webster Malido highlighted the vital role the Levy Mwanawasa Regional Centre for Democracy plays in strengthening democratic governance.

He was speaking when a delegation from the Levy Mwanawasa Regional Centre for Democracy led by Regional Director, Jean-Paul Kimonyo paid a courtesy call at his office.

Mr Malido stated that the institution complements government and national efforts to foster inclusive and accountable institutions in the country.

He highlighted that LMRC’s mandate to conduct operational research and analysis to contribute to policy-making processes, plays a vital role in strengthening democratic governance.

And he appreciated the engagement and opportunity to explore areas of collaboration between the two institutions in the areas in the promotion of democracy.

He emphasised the IBA’s mandate to oversee elections before, during, and after the process, ensuring that media houses report accurately, fairly, and in a balanced manner, in accordance with the election guidelines established for 2026.

Mr Malido said that the guidelines also prohibit the broadcasting of hate speech, misinformation, incitement of violence and unverified election related content that undermine peace.

Mr Malido added that as IBA’s core mandate includes setting content and technical standards, therefore encouraging the media to promote transparency, remain accountable and to publish verified information on election results during the election period.

“We are mandated to promote professional, impartial and responsible broadcasting to ensure citizens have access to accurate, and credible information.

The IBA’s expected outcome is strengthened collaboration with the ECZ and other stakeholders, more informed citizen participation in elections and enhanced public trust in the media,” he said.

The Levy Mwanawasa Regional Centre for Democracy and Good Governance (LMRC), Regional Director, Jean-Paul Kimonyo stated that his institution is conducting a pre-electoral situation analysis and deploying an election observation mission.

Dr Kimonyo emphasised that the mission is dedicated to maintaining peace and security throughout the election period.

Two people have died after being hit by a Tanzanian Scania Truck in Mununga area of Lavushimanda District.

Muchinga Province Police Commissioner, Kenneth Kang’ombe, has confirmed the incident to the media in a statement and identified the deceased as Lamueli Mumbi aged 23 of Tubondo Village and Leonard Mupeta aged 27 of Mununga area in Mpumba Chiefdom.

Mr Kang’ombe said the accident occurred yesterday, May 31, at about 600 meters North of Mununga trading area along the Great North Road.

He explained that the accident happened when the Scania Truck driver, Hemedi of Kibaha area of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania lost control of the vehicle due to excessive speed and careered off the road on the right, hitting a cyclist who was completely off the road and was carrying a passenger.

He further said the deceased sustained fatal head and body injuries and were pronounced dead upon arrival at Mpumba Mini hospital while the truck driver Bakari Salimu Hemedi 38, escaped unhurt.

Mr Kang’ombe said the bodies of the accident victims have since been deposited in Mpumba Mini Hospital mortuary awaiting postmortem and possible burial.

“Involved was a Buffalo bicycle and a Scania Truck and Trailer registration number T66EAE/T287EAJ, a property of SH Malik logistics Company Limited of Tanzania which was loaded with assorted medicines destined for Lusaka,” he said.

Mr Kang’ombe added that the driver is detained in police custody, to pave the way for court appearance on charges of causing death by dangerous driving.

Police in Mongu District have launched investigations into a murder case involving a 62-year-old woman who was found dead in Mbuywana Stage Three Compound in Mongu, Western Province.

Western Province Police Commissioner Rae Hamoonga confirmed the incident in a statement, saying the matter was reported to Mongu Police Station around 07:00 hours on 31st May, 2026.

The deceased has been identified as Mwila Kalenga, aged 62, of Mbuywana Compound, Village Chizimo in Chief Masilokwa’s area of Kalabo District.

Mr Hamoonga said preliminary investigations indicate that the deceased attended a traditional initiation ceremony locally known as Siomboka on the night of May 30, 2026.

According to police, the woman, who was reportedly intoxicated, left the ceremony and later disappeared.

Her body was discovered in the early hours of May 31, 2026 at an unfinished house situated within Mbuywana Stage Three Compound.

“Police officers who visited the scene observed that the deceased was found undressed with multiple bruises on the body, bleeding from the mouth and nose, and suspected injuries to both eyes believed to have been inflicted using sharp objects,” Mr Hamoonga said.

The Police Commissioner disclosed that investigators also found multiple human footprints at the scene.

“Preliminary investigations suggest that the assailants may have attempted to sexually assault the deceased before murdering her,” Mr Hamoonga said.

The body has since been taken to Lewanika General Hospital Mortuary awaiting a postmortem examination.

Mr Hamoonga said no arrests have been made so far, but investigations have intensified as police pursue all possible leads.

“The Zambia Police Service is appealing to members of the public who may have any information regarding the movements of the deceased, the suspects involved, or any suspicious activities within Mbuywana Stage Three during the material time to immediately report to the nearest police station or contact Mongu Central Police Station,” he said.

Police have since assured the public that every effort was being made to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Two – year- old twins have died in an inferno in Muyembe Village in Senior Chief Nsokolo’s Chiefidom of Mbala District of Northern Province.

The twins died after the house they were in caught fire, while two other children escaped unharmed.

Confirming the incident in a statement made available to the media in Mabala today, Northern Province Police Commanding Officer, Simunji Mulonda, said the fire occurred around 07:30 hours on May 31.

Mr Mulonda has identified the deceased as Field Simwinga, and Webby Simwinga.

The Northern Province Police Commanding Officer disclosed that preliminary investigations revealed that the twins, together with two other children, aged six years, and two years, were playing inside a grass-thatched hut when it caught fire and was rapidly engulfed in flames.

“The two surviving children managed to escape unharmed, while the twins tragically failed to escape and were burnt to death,” Mr Mulonda said.

He explained that police officers who rushed to the scene found the bodies of the two juveniles burnt beyond recognition.

Mr Mulonda said findings suggest that the children had been left without close adult supervision at the time of the incident.

He added that the bodies were inspected at the scene and later released to relatives for burial after the family and community members were counselled.

Mr Mulonda indicated that an inquiry file has been opened and investigations into the cause of the fire are continuing.

He has since urged parents, guardians and caregivers to enhance supervision of children at all times to prevent similar tragedies.

Mr Mulonda noted that young children are naturally curious and can easily expose themselves to dangerous situations when left unattended.

He also called on communities to remain vigilant and support efforts aimed at protecting children from preventable accidents.

Kanchibiya district has been plunged into mourning following the death of the United Party for National Development (UPND) Aspiring Candidate for Lubaleshi Ward, Evans Chileshe, who died in a road traffic accident.

Mr Chileshe is reported to have died after the motorbike he was riding was involved in a collision with a vehicle near the Danger Hill area in Mpika district.

And UPND Aspiring Member of Parliament for Lwitikila Constituency, Joan Kambe, in expressing her condolences, has described the death as a devastating blow to the party and the local community.

Speaking in a telephone interview with the media, Ms Kambe noted that the tragedy is particularly painful as it comes shortly after the successful filing of nominations.

“We have just concluded the nomination process and we never expected such a tragic turn of events. Mr Chileshe was a man with a heart for the people and had a deep-seated desire to serve his ward,” Ms Kambe said.

Meanwhile, Aspiring UPND Council Chairperson Candidate, Brian Bwalya, described the late Mr Chileshe as a leader of great humility and dedication.

Mr Bwalya observed that the deceased’s contributions to community unity and the development of Lubaleshi Ward will remain an enduring legacy.

“I will forever cherish the warmth, wisdom and guidance he shared during our interactions. His leadership and commitment to his community will continue to be a source of inspiration to us all,” Mr Bwalya stated.

He added that Lubaleshi Ward has lost a distinguished leader and further extended his heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family and the UPND fraternity.

And a resident of Ntamanga, Katongo Chileshe, said the news has sent shockwaves through the village, as residents were looking forward to the late aspirant’s leadership.

“The community is deeply saddened. We have lost a leader who showed great commitment to the development of our ward even before the election,” Mr Chileshe said.

The district continues to mourn the untimely passing of Mr Evans Chileshe as funeral arrangements are being made by the family.