COPPER THEFTS GROWING BUSINESS

Thefts of copper on the Copperbelt of Zambian have grown in number and frequency. It appears copper stolen from the Zambian Copperbelt is first taken into Congo DR where forged papers are prepared before it is exported through Zambia to outside markets. The story below published in the Zambia Daily Mail of April 2, 2009 adds to many other occurences of recent times.

ABOUT 1.6 tonnes of cobalt have gone missing at Chambishi Metals Copperbelt commanding officer Antonniel Mutentwa confirmed April 1, 2009.

“I can confirm that 1.6 tonnes of cobalt was stolen from Chambishi Metals between March 30 and 31 and the matter was reported to police late on March 31,” Mr Mutentwa said.

No arrests have been made but police have launched investigations. Mr Mutentwa said police would do everything possible to ensure that the culprits were brought to book. He said police would not allow theft of copper and other products from mines under care and maintenance.
Chambishi Metals chief executive officer, Derek Webbstock could neither confirm nor deny the theft.

“I am out of town and right now I am driving to South Africa so I cannot comment on that incident,” Mr Webbstock said.

Chambishi Metals recently announced that 600 miners out of the 900 that lost jobs when the mine in Kalulushi was closed would be reinstated following successful talks with the possible new investor from China.