Obuasitoday.com
News

Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners Condemns Shooting of Nine Miners in Obuasi, Calls for Justice and Dialogue

The Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners (GNASSM) has strongly condemned the recent violent clash between some youth of Obuasi and members of Operation Halt II, a military taskforce deployed to curb illegal mining activities on AngloGold Ashanti’s concession. The incident, which occurred on the evening of Saturday, January 18, 2025, resulted in the tragic loss of nine lives, with fourteen others critically injured and currently receiving medical attention at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi.

In a press release signed by the General Secretary, Godwin Amarh, GNASSM extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery. While acknowledging the need to protect mining concessions from illegal activities, the association criticized the use of lethal force, stating that alternative measures could have been employed to apprehend the trespassers instead of resorting to violence.

“This act of violence is a gross violation of human rights and contravenes the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (VPSHR), which guide mining companies to respect human rights and prevent harm to local communities,” the statement read. GNASSM further urged the youth and small-scale miners in Obuasi to remain calm and law-abiding as investigations into the incident continue.

The Association welcomed the swift intervention of President John Dramani Mahama, who has ordered immediate investigations into the clash to ensure that those responsible for any unlawful actions are held accountable. Additionally, GNASSM commended the government’s directive to AngloGold Ashanti to cover the medical expenses of the injured and facilitate burial arrangements for those who lost their lives.

“We appreciate the government’s commitment to accountability and compassion. However, further dialogue among all stakeholders is crucial in finding lasting solutions to the long-standing impasse between the youth of Obuasi and AngloGold Ashanti,” the statement emphasized.

Meanwhile, heightened security measures remain in place in Obuasi, with AngloGold Ashanti worker residences under strict surveillance. Schools in the area will remain closed on Monday and Tuesday as a precautionary measure to prevent further disturbances.

GNASSM reiterated its call for peace and cooperation as efforts are made to address the concerns of all parties involved. The association remains committed to working with stakeholders to ensure that such tragic incidents do not recur in the future.

Leave a Comment