Kitwe’s Kawama, Chimwemwe, Buchi and Kwacha residents Monday morning joined in a riot ignited by saw mill workers demanding that government tells the truth regarding the alleged sale of ZAFFICO to the Chinese.

Residents denounced government through anti-regime slogans, expressing displeasure on the Chinese influence.

They charged that since 2016, government had been making wrong decisions which had hit them badly.

By time police arrived to disperse the residents, some of the officers were heard wondering when riots would end in Kitwe.

Last week, Lufwanyama police fought running battles with ZAFFICO workers following reports that the institution had been sold to the Chinese.

President Edgar Lungu is on the Copperbelt on a two-day working visit but he is yet to address the matter.

Meanwhile, Chief Government Spokesperson Dora Siliya Tweeted that the institution had not been sold but plans were underway to float its shares for citizens.

“The rumours circulating especially in Kalulushi that ZAFFICO has been sold are false. Plans are underway for the public listing of the company with emphasis to reserve majority shares for citizens. Minister of Lands, Hon Jean Kapata will give more details on the matter,” Siliya stated on her official Twitter page.