Residents of Sabronum in the Ahafo Ano South East District of the Ashanti Region demonstrated a fierce opposition to suspected illegal mining activities on Monday, January 15, 2024. The community took swift action by obstructing the path of a truck suspected of transporting an excavator for illicit mining in a forest reserve, and subsequently setting the vehicle ablaze.
Concerns were raised regarding the involvement of unidentified individuals, allegedly supported by local authorities, in the transportation of the excavator, prompting heightened vigilance among residents to combat unauthorized mining operations.
Amidst the confrontation in Sabronum, an individual named Bismarck Ankamaah reportedly suffered severe machete wounds in an alleged attack. Ankamaah was accused by assailants of instigating the arson of the truck carrying the excavator, resulting in injuries to his leg, arm, and back. Despite being discharged from the hospital, his experience underscores the tensions gripping the community.
Ankamaah recounted his account of the events, stating, “I heard an announcement from the Assembly Member at about 2 am on Monday that some people are bringing in an excavator to engage in mining. I saw an individual making a phone call, and I overheard him say the vehicle had arrived. Later, I saw that the truck came. Some residents had gathered and blocked the road.”
The residents of Sabronum are particularly alarmed about the potential contamination of a vital water source essential for domestic and irrigation purposes if illegal mining activities persist unchecked.
The community has issued a stern warning of decisive action should the excavator remain within their vicinity. Despite government initiatives, illegal mining continues to pose a significant challenge in the Ano South East District, exacerbating tensions in the region. The situation remains tense as residents stand resolute against any encroachment on their land.
-By Oto Erica | Ghana Crimes
