Residents of Hilltop in Ndola’s Zee World area have maintained their stance against illegal manganese mining near their homes, because of alleged unsafe methods being used.
The unhappy residents reveal that individuals involved in the vice have a habit of allegedly harassing the community, hence many wonder where the said group draws its authority when the government had put a stop to the illegality.
The aggrieved people further describe the situation as unfair because what is happening at the disputed area is well known by authorities, hence they do not understand why there is no police presence to curb the activity.
Reacting to the grievances, Ndola District Commissioner Joseph Phiri says his office is aware that individuals mining in the area acquired a license from the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Development, however, they have not met full requirements to commence operation.
By Lovemore Sondashi