A 56-year-old employee of Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) has died following an underground mining accident that occurred at the company’s operations in Chililabombwe.

Copperbelt Police Commissioner Mwala Yuyi confirmed the incident, identifying the deceased as Timothy Mwananshiku, a boilermaker who was on duty at the time of the accident.

According to Mr. Yuyi, the incident occurred on May 26, 2026, at approximately 05:00 hours at the 1,430-metre level underground. Preliminary reports indicate that Mr. Mwananshiku fell into a flask while attempting to clear a jammed transfer car during mining operations.

Mr. Mwananshiku had reported for duty on the evening of May 25 when the unfortunate incident occurred.

Following the accident, an emergency response team was immediately activated and successfully retrieved the injured worker from the shaft. He was rushed to Konkola Mine Hospital before being referred to Kitwe Teaching Hospital for specialised medical treatment.

Despite efforts by medical personnel, Mr. Mwananshiku succumbed to his injuries on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at approximately 21:40 hours.

Mr. Yuyi stated that the body is currently lying in the Kitwe Teaching Hospital mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination.

The incident has once again highlighted the importance of maintaining strict safety standards within underground mining operations, where workers are often exposed to challenging and high-risk environments.

Meanwhile, investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident are expected to continue as authorities seek to establish the exact sequence of events that led to the fatal incident.

Mining Insight News extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones of Mr. Timothy Mwananshiku during this difficult time.