The Zambian government's decision to award a mining licence in the Lower Zambezi National Park drew protests Friday that resulted in six people being detained.

The authorities have granted a mining licence to Zambezi Resources, an Australia-based copper mining firm, prompting outrage from the environmentalists.

Six people were picked up as they gathered to demand an injunction against the project.

"It's unacceptable for any investor to mine in the park and we are seeing our lawyers so that we get an injunction," said Robert Chimambo, a spokesperson for the group.

Chimambo said the police released them without any charge but advised them to apply for a permit to march and not take the law in their hands.