By Cecilia Chiluba 
Zambia Police Service has arrested 110 individuals in connection with a riot that that erupted earlier today, at Mukando Turn-Off in Serenje District, over gold mining restrictions by the local authority.
During the riot, a Dangote truck carrying 600 bags of cement is said to have been looted by the rioters.
According to media reports, the residents were assured that mining activities at the said gold site would resume today, but only to be informed that the mine remains a restricted area, prompting them to riot.
Calm has since been restored following swift police action in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies.
Police Public Relations Officer Rae Hamoonga stated that more arrests are expected as investigations continue.
“At approximately 07:00 hours, Serenje Police Station received a phone call from a concerned member of the public reporting that a riot had broken out at Mukando Turn-Off.”
“In response, officers were immediately dispatched to the scene and upon arrival, they found a mob of unruly individuals who became increasingly aggressive,” Mr. Hamoonga said.
He added that despite efforts by the police to calm the situation, the rioters intensified their actions by pelting stones at the officers and the police vehicles, resulting in damage to the front windscreens of both vehicles.
“The violent mob then proceeded to the District Commissioner’s Office where they caused extensive damage by destroying office furniture, computers, inventory records, and windows,” he added.
Mr. Hamoonga further explained that the rioters also targeted the National Assembly Office for the area’s Member of Parliament, vandalizing property in the process.
“Tragically, several police officers sustained minor injuries during the chaos. Additional reinforcements were immediately mobilized from Mupepetwe Police Post, the Zambia Correctional Service, Zambia National Service, and Central Division Police Headquarters in Kabwe.”
“We are pleased to inform the public that calm has since been restored, and the previously blocked road has been reopened to traffic.
He urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement agencies as investigations continue.