Obuasi: Small Scale Miners condemn violent clash
The Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners (GNASSM) has strongly condemned the violent clashes that occurred on Saturday, January 18, 2025, between alleged illegal miners and military personnel.
GNASSM criticized the use of lethal force, stating that the military could have employed alternative measures to apprehend the trespassers and bring them to justice without resulting in loss of life.
In a statement issued on January 19, GNASSM said, “The Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners (GNASSM) strongly condemns the violent clashes that occurred late Saturday, January 18, 2025, between some youth of Obuasi and members of Operation Halt II, a military taskforce deployed to halt all forms of illegal mining activities on AGA concession.”
GNASSM has urged the youth to remain calm as they collaborate with authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths and work toward lasting solutions.
The association also disclosed that fourteen individuals are reportedly in critical condition and receiving medical care at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH).
“The Association extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes those injured a speedy recovery.”
AngloGold Ashanti Ghana has confirmed the deadly clash between illegal miners and military personnel at its secured operational area in the northern section of the Obuasi concession.
The confrontation, which took place on January 18 in Obuasi, Ashanti Region, escalated tensions, with four vehicles set ablaze during the incident.
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In a statement issued on January 19, AngloGold Ashanti stated 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 had been restored and emphasized its ongoing collaboration with authorities to address the situation.
