MINISTRY of Mines Permanent Secretary Dr Hapenga Kabeta says government will no longer spend public resources on rescue operations involving individuals engaged in illegal mining activities. Dr Kabeta says illegal mining not only endangers the lives of those involved but also places a significant burden on government resources whenever rescue operations become necessary. Speaking during a visit to Matala Gold Mine in Mumbwa District, Monday, where five small-scale miners were successfully rescued after being trapped underground for 17 days following a mine collapse, Dr Kabeta said the incident should serve as a lesson to those engaging in illegal mining activities. “Government has warned that it will no longer spend public resources on rescue operations involving individuals engaged in illegal mining...