At least seven people have been killed in a violent clash between soldiers and illegal miners at a mine in Ghana’s central Ashanti region. The Ghana Armed Forces reported that around 60 illegal miners, armed with pump-action guns, forcibly entered an AngloGold Ashanti-operated mine and fired at soldiers when they were intercepted. The soldiers then retaliated in self-defence, leading to deaths and injuries.
A representative of the miners denied they had been armed, while protests broke out in Obuasi town following news of the deaths. Angry residents set fire to several buses, as well as vehicles and equipment belonging to AngloGold Ashanti, in retaliation for the killings.
Also Read: Nigeria, Ghana Set for Decisive CHAN Qualifier in Uyo
In response, President John Mahama has ordered a full investigation into the incident, vowing that anyone found responsible for unlawful actions will face justice. The government has also instructed AngloGold Ashanti to cover medical and burial expenses for the victims, while security forces have been deployed to restore order in the area.
The Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners described the violence as “unprecedented,” with reports indicating that at least eight people have died, and several others were severely injured. The company has assured that the situation has calmed down and said it was working closely with authorities to address the aftermath of the violence.
Leave feedback about this
You must be logged in to post a comment.