Ashanti Region: Bonteso Assemblyman, three others nabbed over violent mining clash
Security operatives in the Ashanti Region have arrested the Assemblyman for Bonteso in the Amansie South District, Patrick Asare, together with three others, following a violent confrontation during an anti-illegal mining operation.
The arrests, which took place on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, came after members of the Special Anti-Galamsey Task Force intercepted an excavator allegedly being used for illegal mining during a routine patrol in the area.
Police report that as preparations were underway to transport the seized machine, Asare allegedly mobilised a group of miners to confront the task force. The group reportedly hurled stones at the officers, issued threats of bloodshed, and attempted to block the removal of the excavator.
Despite the tense standoff, the task force subdued the resistance and arrested the four suspects — identified as Patrick Asare, Akwesi Amponsah, Osei Vasco, and Owusu Alexander. Two officers, ASP Bawah Abdul Jalil and G/Sgt. Agblekpe Mawuena Yao, sustained injuries in the process.
Law enforcement officials say the miners barricaded all exit routes, trapping the task force team. Two individuals are alleged to have fired pump-action guns at the officers, prompting the task force to respond with “appropriate force” to disperse the crowd.
The seized excavator was later moved to the Manso Adubia Police Station under heavy security. The suspects are expected to be transferred to Accra to face prosecution.
Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com
