AngloGold assures calm after violent incident with illegal miners in Obuasi
AngloGold Ashanti Ghana has confirmed a deadly clash between illegal miners and military personnel at its secured operational area in the northern section of the Obuasi concession.
The confrontation, which occurred on January 18, 2025, in Obuasi, Ashanti Region, resulted in heightened tensions, with four vehicles set ablaze during the incident.
In a statement released on January 19, AngloGold Ashanti revealed that a large group of armed illegal miners attempted to forcibly gain unauthorized access to the mine’s infrastructure.
The company assured the public that calm has been restored and emphasized its ongoing collaboration with authorities to address the situation and prevent future occurrences.
“AngloGold Ashanti Ghana confirms that on the evening of 18 January, an incident occurred in the fenced operational area in the northern part of the company’s Obuasi concession. A large group of armed, illegal miners attempted to forcibly gain unauthorized access to mine infrastructure.
“Authorities mobilized to defend against this attack and to ensure the safety and security of employees and those in the immediate surroundings.
“The situation at the mine is currently calm and the Company is working closely with the authorities. Our primary concern is the safety and health of all our employees and those in our community who have been directly impacted by this incident.”
The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), in a statement, explained that military personnel acted in self-defence when illegal miners opened fire on them.
Ghanaian-themed art
GAF confirmed that seven illegal miners tragically lost their lives in the incident, with several others, including a member of the public security forces, sustaining injuries.
The government has ordered an investigation into the matter and directed AngloGold Ashanti to cover the medical expenses of the injured.
Additionally, the Member of Parliament for Obuasi West, Kwaku Kwarteng, has called for an immediate probe into the incident.
