We witnessed a dramatic scene unfold at the Kotoku Palace in Akim Oda on Wednesday as Chief of Akokoaso in Ofoase Ayirebi constituency, Nana Asare Bediako III, led hundreds of residents in presenting a case against Jia Xin Industrial Mining Company Limited. The chief and the community alleged mistreatment of locals by the mining company.
More than three hundred members of the Akokoaso community, dressed in black attire, gathered at the palace, expressing their grievances through protest songs and seeking justice from Oseadeeyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV, the King of Kotoku.
Charles Frimpong, the Assembly Member of Akokoaso, provided detailed accounts of clashes between local youth and Jia Xin’s security forces, attributing the conflicts to land encroachments. He highlighted the arbitrary detention of fifteen young men by Jia Xin, which has instilled fear and panic in the community.
In response to the allegations, Mr. Wang Yandong, representing Jia Xin Industrial Mining Limited, evaded direct questioning and appealed for peace. Observing the proceedings, Oseadeeyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV pointed out that the periodic skirmishes stem from Jia Xin’s lack of social license.
Expressing disapproval of Jia Xin’s management, the King urged Wang Yandong to drop the court case against the detained youth within 24 hours as a gesture of goodwill toward peaceful coexistence with the Akokoaso community, aiming to de-escalate tension in the area.
It is worth noting that Jia Xin Industrial Mining Company Limited took over the prospecting license from Ofosua Mining and Construction Company, which was approved by then Minister John Peter Amewu in 2018. However, the community has accused the company of engaging in illegal underground mining, blasting old shafts, causing damage to buildings, and encroaching on farmlands. These allegations have resulted in multiple confrontations between the community and the company.
The recent arrest of 15 youth by the Akyem Oda Divisional Police at the behest of Jia Xin for alleged illegal mining on their concession has further exacerbated tensions. Moreover, on February 10, 2024, a group of gunmen stormed the company's site, reportedly shooting some Chinese expatriates and absconding with significant amounts of money and gold bars.
The situation at Akokoaso underscores the complex dynamics between mining companies and local communities, highlighting the importance of addressing social and environmental concerns in such operations. It remains to be seen how this conflict will be resolved and what measures will be taken to ensure the well-being of both the community and the mining company.
-source starrfm | curated by Aisha Yakubu | Ghana Crimes
