2024 Chingola mine collapse

Date	29–30 October 2024
Type	Mine collapse
Cause	Illegal mining activity
Non-fatal injuries	2

The Chingola mine collapse occurred on the night of 29–30 October 2024 at the former Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) COP 5 dump site in Chingola, Zambia. The incident involved illegal miners who were excavating within the area when a section of the earth gave way, burying several individuals.

Background

The COP 5 dump site was previously under the operations of Konkola Copper Mines but had since been decommissioned. Despite the area being declared unsafe and outside KCM’s operational control, it continued to attract illegal miners seeking copper ore from the dump materials.

In October 2024, KCM had also recorded two other fatal accidents within its legal operations, leading to temporary shutdowns for safety assessments. These incidents heightened concern over mining safety standards and enforcement across the Copperbelt.

Incident

At approximately 22:30 hours on 29 October 2024, a portion of the dump site collapsed, burying eight illegal miners. Six of the victims were members of the same family. Two other miners were rescued alive but were reported to be in critical condition.

The accident was reported to the Chiwempala Police Station and confirmed by Copperbelt Police Commissioner Peacewell Mweemba. Rescue efforts were conducted by local authorities in collaboration with mine safety and community teams.

Response

Konkola Copper Mines issued a statement expressing condolences to the affected families. The company clarified that the COP 5 dump site was no longer part of its active operations but acknowledged the ongoing risks posed by illegal mining in decommissioned areas. KCM reaffirmed its commitment to safety and urged the public to refrain from engaging in unauthorized mining activities.

The incident reignited public debate over the dangers of illegal mining, enforcement challenges, and the need for sustainable livelihood programs in mining communities.

Aftermath

The Chingola mine collapse was one of the most tragic mining-related events in Zambia in late 2024. It underscored the persistent hazards associated with illegal mining and prompted calls for stricter regulation, improved safety awareness, and stronger community engagement in mining regions.

See also

• Mining in Zambia
• Konkola Copper Mines
• List of mining disasters in Zambia
• Copperbelt Province

References

• Copperbelt Police Command statement, 30 October 2024.
• Konkola Copper Mines public statement, 31 October 2024.
• Chiwempala Police incident report, 29 October 2024.
• Government of Zambia, Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development safety update, October 2024.