The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) have released an official statement addressing the tragic incident on January 19, 2025, involving small-scale miners and soldiers at the AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine. This follow-up sheds light on key details of the confrontation and clarifies events leading to the deaths of seven illegal miners and the injury of one soldier.
Official Statement from the Ghana Armed Forces
According to the press release issued by the GAF, a group of approximately 60 illegal miners breached the security fence of the AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine around 11:00 pm on Saturday, January 18. The miners reportedly intruded at the Cote D’or Ramp with the aim of accessing the Deep Decline of the mines.

The statement indicates that the illegal miners were armed with weapons, including locally manufactured rifles, pump-action guns, gas cylinders, knives, industrial bolt cutters, axes, and machetes. These actions prompted a response from the military personnel on duty as part of Operation HALT II, a nationwide effort to curb illegal mining activities.
Clash and Casualties
The military patrol engaged the illegal miners when they attempted to stop their advance. The confrontation escalated into an exchange of gunfire. The troops, according to the GAF, acted in self-defense, resulting in the deaths of seven illegal miners and one miner sustaining serious injuries.
Additionally, a soldier was injured during the clash after being hit by pellets from a pump-action gun. The soldier has since received medical treatment. Six pump-action BB cartridges were reportedly retrieved from the scene.
Military’s Position
The GAF reiterated their stance on the use of force, emphasizing that military personnel are authorized to defend themselves, civilians, and property under their protection, including lethal force if necessary. The statement also served as a warning to all illegal miners to desist from encroaching on restricted mining areas and engaging in confrontations with security forces, as such actions could have fatal consequences.