Two killed in mining clash in Kitwe
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Diggers
Two people were killed by Zambian police in Kitwe during a confrontation with residents accused of illegal mining near the Mopani railway line. Officers opened fire after residents regrouped, reportedly blocking the road and throwing stones, according to spokesperson Chipo Kaitisha.
Two people were shot dead by police in Kitwe, Zambia, during a confrontation with residents of the Kandabwe community suspected of illegal mining along the Mopani railway line. The incident took place on 19 October 2026, Chipo Kaitisha, spokesperson for the public relations department of the Zambian police, cited by Diggers, confirmed.
Police officers had tried to disperse a group digging to extract minerals along the railway line. After the group regrouped and resumed excavations, the confrontation spread to other residents, who blocked the road and threw stones at the officers. Police eventually used their weapons after several attempts to disperse the group, according to Chipo Kaitisha.
