The Paramount Chief of Twifo Atti-Morkwa in the Central Region, along with his linguist and two others, are currently embroiled in a legal battle as they have been accused of engaging in illegal mining activities on a licensed mining concession. This contentious issue has landed them in the Kumasi High Court, where they are facing serious allegations brought against them by Kadesh Mining Enterprise.
According to the plaintiff, Kadesh Mining Enterprise, a significant portion of their mining concession at Twifo Atti-Morkwa has been unlawfully destroyed by illegal mining activities. The company was granted a small-scale mining license in 2024 but before they could commence operations, the concession was allegedly occupied by the Paramount Chief of Twifo Atti-Morkwa, Oseadeayo Kwasi Kenin IV, his associates, and a Chinese national.
The court documents reveal that the paramount chief admitted to the illegal mining activities, which have resulted in substantial financial losses to Kadesh Mining Enterprise. As a result, the plaintiff is seeking the recovery of GH¢15 million in gold mined by the defendants and an additional GH¢20 million in general damages.
During the court proceedings, the paramount chief was notably absent, while his associates appeared before the court. The plaintiff's counsel emphasized that private investigations had been conducted into the illegal mining operations involving the paramount chief and his partners.
In response to the legal action, the paramount chief has filed a motion challenging the jurisdiction of the Kumasi High Court, arguing that the case should be heard at the Cape Coast High Court due to the residence of all defendants in Twifo Praso. This motion is awaiting a decision from the court.
It is worth noting that the trial judge has verbally ordered the paramount chief and his associates to refrain from any activities on the disputed land until a final determination is made regarding an interlocutory injunction filed by the plaintiff.
This case underscores the ongoing national efforts to combat illegal mining, locally known as "galamsey." The plaintiff's counsel emphasized that only their client has the legal right to mine on the land, not the paramount chief, who claims authority based on his position.
As this complex legal battle unfolds, it raises important questions about land rights, mining regulations, and the authority of traditional leaders in such matters. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly have significant implications for all parties involved and may set important precedents in the realm of mining and land ownership in Ghana.
The case is adjourned to October 14, 2024, and will continue to attract attention as it progresses through the judicial system.
-source Adomonline | curated by Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
