Konkola Copper Mines Plc as shut down its Underground Mine Shaft 4 operations following a fatal accident that claimed one miner’s life after being crushed by an electronic locomotive.

In a statement, KCM public relations manager Shapi Shachinda announced that the mining company had proceeded to halt all work on that particular shaft to enable ongoing investigations into the matter.

He also expressed the company’s sincere condolences and grief on loss of life.

“KCM regrets to announce a fatality at Konkola Mine Shaft No. 4 in Chililabombwe, which occurred at about 05:45 hours on Wednesday, March 20, 2019, involving 49-year old Mr James Katai, a worker for a partner company, Master Mine Services (MMS). Mr Katai lost his life in an underground mine accident involving tramming operations. Circumstances of the accident are being investigated. The next of kin of the deceased, who is survived by his wife and three children, have been informed about the accident and his demise. The entire KCM is devastated by the sad event, and commit to assisting the family of the deceased during this difficult period,” stated Shachinda.

“All work at the particular section of Konkola Underground Mine Shaft 4 has been halted while investigations, involving the Mine Safety Department, police, our representative trade unions and senior KCM management and operational structures, are underway. All efforts and diligence are focused on ensuring total safety of the people and the mine. Our deepest condolences go out to the deceased’s family, friends and colleagues and to the entire KCM team.”