Zambia retrieves 9 additional bodies from mining quarry

By James Kunda

LUSAKA, Zambia (AA) - Zambia retrieved nine additional bodies on Friday from a mining quarry that collapsed in December, trapping more than 30 illegal miners, according to an official.

Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo told reporters that the retrievals brought the number of bodies recovered to 23.

“We have managed to retrieve nine more bodies from site one, said Matambo, adding that the bodies would be buried Saturday.

He said seven of the nine bodies had been identified, while two would undergo DNA testing to determine their identities.

“The affected families will also be supported financially and materially and the rescue effort will continue until the remaining bodies are retrieved,” he said.

More than 30 illegal miners were trapped when the Senseli Open pit mine collapsed because of heavy rains in Chingola township in Copperbelt Province.

One victim was discovered alive days later and other recoveries have been made.

Recovery and rescue efforts have since been ongoing, with the government indicating that measures to formalize all forms of mining are in place to prevent repeat occurrences.