Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) has confirmed a theft at its Nchanga Smelter in Chingola, but says the incident will not affect the operations of the mine.

It was reported Monday that operations at Nchanga Smelter in Chingola were halted following the disappearance of a flash disk and application certificate license key.

The incidence sparks speculations that there was sabotage at the mining firm which is under liquidation.

In a statement issued, Wednesday, KCM Corporate Affairs Manager Eugene Chungu explained that the smelter had been idle pending availability of concentrates stocks.

He stated that KCM had planned to start up the smelter on June, 22, this year.

“Konkola Copper Mines Plc wishes to comment on media reports regarding the status of the Smelter situated at Nchanga, Chingola. The facts are as follows: The Smelter has been idle pending availability of concentrates stocks. KCM has planned to start up the smelter on June 22, 2019,” Chungu stated.

He stated that during this period, a theft of electronic equipment was detected but added that KCM was committed to enhancing security levels at all its facilities during the transition phase.

And Chungu stated that the theft experienced at the smelter was being investigated and all those involved would be firmly dealt with.

“During this period a theft of electronic equipment was detected, which has not impacted on the status of the Smelter operations at all. KCM is committed to enhancing security levels at all its facilities during this transition phase. The theft experienced at the smelter is being investigated and efforts are in place to ensure that all those involved are firmly dealt with to the full extent of the law,” stated Chungu.