Zambia Shuts Down Illegal Gold Mining Hub in North-West Following Military Operation

Authorities in Zambia have shut down a large illegal gold mining site in the country’s north-west after a coordinated military operation aimed at restoring order and protecting mineral resources.

The site, located in Mufumbwe District, approximately 800 kilometres from the capital Lusaka, had grown into a major economic and security concern. Officials estimate that more than 50,000 people—including both Zambian nationals and foreign miners—had moved into the gold-rich area to engage in illegal mining and associated activities.

Government sources said the scale and organisation of the illegal operations posed significant risks, including environmental degradation, loss of state revenue, and threats to public safety. The military-led intervention was therefore deemed necessary to dismantle the operation and curb the unlawful exploitation of mineral resources.

Authorities have indicated that further measures will be taken to prevent the re-emergence of illegal mining activities in the area, as Zambia continues efforts to formalise artisanal and small-scale mining while safeguarding national mineral assets.