Mines and Minerals Development Minister Paul Kabuswe says rescue operations are ongoing at Matala Gold Mine in Nangoma Constituency, Mumbwa District, where five miners remain trapped following a collapse that occurred on May 5, 2026.
Addressing the press in Lusaka, Mr Kabuswe says the situation remains challenging as the tunnels involved are not conventional, extending to depths of up to 100 metres.
He says rescue teams are facing serious difficulties due to the dangerous nature of the underground structure, which has complicated efforts to reach the trapped miners.
The government says it is currently exploring additional rescue options to improve the chances of safely retrieving the victims.
The incident occurred on May 5, 2026, when a section of the mine collapsed and buried five people underground.
Their condition remains unknown.
By Best Jere
