A two-week investigation by the Nampo city prosecutors’ office has uncovered widespread corruption and safety violations at the Chonji Lubricant Factory, leading to a management reshuffle and potential job losses for workers.
As part of the government’s industrial revitalization plan, the factory was tasked with ramping up production of industrial lubricant using new equipment starting in July.
“The prosecutors’ office launched this probe to identify misbehavior and other issues before the intensified production began,” a source in Nampo told Daily NK last Wednesday, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Investigators discovered multiple infractions, including theft of raw materials and finished products by workers for personal profit. Consequently, about 20 employees now face potential dismissal.
The inquiry also revealed serious safety violations. A fire caused significant property damage due to workers’ disregard for safety protocols. Factory managers were criticized for inadequate accident prevention efforts and failing to properly educate workers on safety regulations.
“Two managers were fired during the investigation for downplaying fire incidents in reports to superiors and showing leniency to personal acquaintances who committed infractions,” the source said.
The city prosecutors’ office denounced the factory as a “den of thieves” where corruption was rampant and workers protected each other’s misdeeds. In response, the Nampo city government has decided to closely monitor the factory for the next few months.
To address these issues, the factory is now planning to replace problematic workers with young graduates from vocational schools, who will undergo rigorous education and training.
Daily NK works with a network of sources living in North Korea, China, and elsewhere. Their identities remain anonymous for security reasons.
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