At least seven people were killed and fourteen others severely injured during an incident at AngloGold Ashanti’s Obuasi gold mine in Ghana’s Ashanti Region on Saturday night. The Ghana Armed Forces reported that the casualties occurred during a firefight with illegal miners who allegedly breached the mine’s security.
The Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners disputes this account, with local chairman Kofi Adams stating that the victims were unarmed. According to Adams, nine individuals lost their lives, and fourteen were injured in what he described as an unprecedented act. He criticized the use of excessive force, pointing out that previous incidents involving trespassers had been resolved with warning shots.
“This is tragic and difficult to comprehend,” Adams remarked, expressing shock over the escalation of violence.
However, the Ghana Armed Forces presented a different version of events. In a statement, they alleged that approximately 60 illegal miners armed with locally manufactured rifles and other weapons infiltrated the mine around 11:00 pm (2300 GMT) on Saturday. The military claimed that the group opened fire on a patrol team, prompting a shootout that resulted in casualties.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and concern, prompting Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama to order an immediate investigation. Describing the event as “tragic,” the presidency issued a statement on Sunday, emphasizing the need for a thorough inquiry to ascertain the facts and hold those responsible accountable.
As part of the response, the government has directed AngloGold Ashanti to bear the costs of medical treatment for the injured and the burials of those who lost their lives. The Johannesburg-listed mining giant, which owns the Obuasi and Iduapriem mines, has yet to release a statement regarding the incident. Together, these mines produced over 490,000 ounces of gold in the previous year.
The Obuasi mine, a significant gold production site in Ghana, has faced challenges with illegal mining activities in recent years. Saturday’s incident has heightened calls for improved security measures and peaceful resolutions to disputes between miners and authorities.
This tragedy underscores the urgent need to address illegal mining in Ghana and establish mechanisms to prevent violent confrontations. As investigations unfold, the nation awaits answers to determine accountability and ensure justice for the victims and their families.
