We are deeply saddened to report on the recent violent clashes between illegal miners and Asanko Mines private security in Manso Tontokrom, located in the Amansie South district of the Ashanti region. Tragically, three individuals have lost their lives as a result of these confrontations, marking a distressing escalation in the ongoing dispute.
The conflict arose following the incursion of illegal miners onto Asanko Mines' concession, reportedly with the support of Tontokrom traditional leaders. Tensions had been mounting prior to these events, with the community expressing grievances against Asanko Mines for their alleged refusal to release part of their legal concession for small-scale mining. The community accused the mining company of deploying armed law enforcement personnel to intimidate them and asserted that Asanko Mines sought to claim their lands for large-scale mining.
In response to these allegations, Adu Gyamfi Kumanin, a Chief in Tontokrom, appealed to President Nana Akufo Addo to intervene and compel Asanko Mines to release the disputed concession for community mining, citing the potential to address unemployment in the area. The traditional leader's statement also included a troubling warning of potential violence should Asanko Mines persist in using armed forces to assert control over the contested land.
Subsequently, clashes erupted between Asanko Mines' private security personnel and the illegal miners, resulting in fatalities on both sides. District Chief Executive Opoku Gyemfi confirmed the loss of three lives and expressed a commitment to restoring calm in the area.
Eric Darko, Asanko Mines' environment and sustainability manager, corroborated the violent turn of events, revealing that the private security personnel deployed to the invaded concession had been brutally attacked by the illegal miners.
These distressing developments underscore the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the complex issues at play. The loss of life and the use of violence are deeply regrettable, and it is imperative that all parties involved prioritize dialogue and lawful means of addressing grievances.
As this situation continues to unfold, we urge all stakeholders to exercise restraint and seek constructive avenues for conflict resolution. Our thoughts are with the affected individuals and their families during this difficult time.
-source starrfm | curated by Aisha Yakubu | Ghana Crimes
