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President John Dramani Mahama has directed an immediate investigation into the violent clashes between illegal miners and military personnel stationed at AngloGold Ashanti Mines in Obuasi.
The incident, which occurred on Saturday, January 18, 2025, around 11:00 PM, resulted in the tragic loss of eight lives.
In a statement issued on January 19, the President expressed profound regret over the deaths and extended condolences to the bereaved families.
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He emphasized that any individuals found to have acted unlawfully during the incident would be held accountable.
“The government wishes to express deep regret over the tragic loss of up to eight (8) lives, said to be illegal miners, following a violent clash at a mining site in Obuasi,” the statement read. “In response to the unfortunate incident, President John Dramani Mahama has ordered an immediate investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the clashes and ensure that any individuals found to have acted unlawfully are brought to justice.”
The government has tasked the management of AngloGold Ashanti to fully cover the medical expenses of the injured and facilitate the burial arrangements for those who lost their lives. Meanwhile, security agencies have been directed to restore peace in the area and implement measures to prevent similar occurrences.
According to a press release from the Ghana Armed Forces, the clash began when a group of approximately 60 illegal miners breached the security fence in an attempt to access the mine’s Deep Decline area. Armed with locally manufactured rifles, pump-action guns, knives, axes, gas cylinders, and other tools, the miners reportedly opened fire when confronted by military personnel.
In self-defence, the soldiers returned fire, leading to the fatalities and leaving one illegal miner seriously injured. The remaining miners fled the scene.
The Ghana Armed Forces confirmed the deaths of seven illegal miners during the confrontation. The incident has heightened tensions in Obuasi, with calls for calm and swift action to address the situation.
President Mahama’s directive underscores the government’s commitment to justice and ensuring peace in the area. The investigation aims to shed light on the events leading to the clash, determine culpability, and enforce accountability.
The tragic event has reignited discussions about illegal mining (galamsey) and its impact on security, community relations, and the environment. Stakeholders are urging long-term solutions to address the underlying issues that drive individuals to engage in illegal mining activities.
