The Zambia Air Force (ZAF) yesterday contributed a decisive role in the successful clearance of illegal miners at Kikonge Gold Mine in Mufumbwe District by providing vital aerial reconnaissance and combat support to Zambia Army Special Forces during a coordinated joint security operation.
The presence of aerial assets proved key in troop insertion, monitoring movement, deterring resistance and ensuring operational dominance throughout the exercise.
The Air Force participation demonstrated the strong inter agency solidarity that brought together the Zambia Army, Zambia Air Force, Drug Enforcement Commission, Immigration Department and other security agencies in a unified execution of the operation.
Meanwhile, Central Joint Operations Committee (CJOC) Chairperson and Zambia Army Commander, Lt Gen Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele, comfirmed that the operation had fully secured the mining area and restored state authority and paved the way for lawful mining activities.
Lt Gen Zyeele revealed that Zambia Army special forces, supported by air cover also dismantled the infamous Swahiri and Ukraine markets, which were illegal trading hubs operated by foreign nationals within the mining zone.
The Army Commander stressed that security wings will maintain a continued presence in Kikonge to guarantee stability and create an enabling environment for regulated mining.
Zambia Air Force – Defend and Support.
