W/R: Salman residents petition President Mahama over alleged illegal mining ties to Adamus Resources Limited

Residents of Salman and four neighbouring communities in the Nzema East District have petitioned President John Dramani Mahama over alleged illegal mining activities linked to Adamus Resources Limited.

The petition, led by local youth, also called on the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, for an immediate investigation into claims that portions of the company’s mining concession have been leased to unlicensed operators, reportedly including foreign nationals.

Speaking to the media on Sunday, March 29, 2026, the residents argued that such arrangements, if proven, could undermine Ghana’s mining regulations and weaken enforcement of the country’s laws.

Salman, located within the Ellembelle District and host to the Nzema Gold Project, has long coexisted with large-scale mining operations.

Under Ghana’s Mining Act, such concessions are expected to operate under strict oversight.

However, the persistent rise of illegal mining, widely referred to as galamsey, continues to challenge regulatory authorities and fuel community frustration.

Recent arrests by the Essiama District Police Command have intensified concerns.

Five suspected illegal miners were detained in an operation sanctioned by District Chief Executive Joseph Agyekum.

According to police statements, security officers from Adamus Resources allegedly admitted to a link between the company and the unauthorised mining suspects, sparking claims of selective enforcement.

“Young people trying to organise themselves into legal mining groups are being blocked, while others operate freely under questionable circumstances,” a community member said, describing what residents see as a troubling double standard.

Adding to the controversy are allegations involving Alfred Mahama, a brother of President Mahama, who residents claim acts as a liaison between the mining company and illegal operators across multiple sites.

The claims have heightened scrutiny, with petitioners (residents) questioning whether political connections are undermining the government’s stance against illegal mining.

The environmental toll has further escalated tensions.

The residents lamented that the Subile and Broma rivers, key sources of water for the community, have reportedly been polluted and heavily silted, affecting drinking water and local livelihoods.

“Fishing activities, a major source of protein for residents, have declined sharply as aquatic ecosystems deteriorate,” the residents added.

“Our survival is at stake, the rivers are dying, and so are our means of living,” a resident stated.

The petition outlines three key demands: clarity on the legality of concession leasing, an immediate halt to all disputed mining activities, and a full-scale investigation into the operations of Adamus Resources Limited.

Residents have issued a one-week ultimatum, warning that failure by authorities to respond decisively could lead to direct community action to reclaim control over the land.

Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/Francis Appiah