KCM Worker Dies Following Underground Mine Accident

A 56-year-old employee of Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) has died following an accident at the company's underground mining operations in Chililabombwe.

Copperbelt Police Commissioner Mwala Yuyi identified the deceased as Timothy Mwananshiku, a boilermaker who was on duty when the incident occurred.

Mr. Yuyi said the accident happened on 26 May 2026 at approximately 05:00 hours at the 1,430-metre level of the mine.

He explained that Mr. Mwananshiku reportedly fell into a flask while attempting to clear a jammed transfer car during underground operations.

Following the incident, an emergency response team was immediately activated and successfully retrieved Mr. Mwananshiku from the shaft.

He was initially rushed to Konkola Mine Hospital before being referred to Kitwe Teaching Hospital for specialised treatment.

However, Mr. Yuyi said Mr. Mwananshiku later succumbed to his injuries on 28 May 2026 at about 21:40 hours.

The incident has once again drawn attention to workplace safety in the mining sector, one of Zambia's most important industries.