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NCOM Condemns Obuasi Shooting, Calls for Military Withdrawal from Mining Communities

The National Coalition on Mining (NCOM) has strongly condemned the recent killing of nine small-scale miners in Obuasi and the wounding of several others during a military operation at the AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) mine. The coalition labeled the incident as part of a disturbing pattern of human rights abuses by state security forces in mining communities across Ghana.

The tragic event in Obuasi follows a similar incident on January 9, 2025, where three young men were shot and killed at the Newmont (NGGL) Ahafo South Gold Mine in Ntotroso, allegedly for trespassing and stealing. NCOM argues that these killings highlight a growing trend of state security forces using excessive force to protect private mining companies, often at the expense of the lives of Ghanaian citizens.

Concerns Over Militarization of Mining Communities

NCOM expressed deep concern over the increasing presence of military bases at mining sites, citing AngloGold Ashanti’s ongoing construction of a $6 million military facility at Anyankyirem near Obuasi as an example of the state’s prioritization of corporate security over community welfare.

“It is alarming that the state security apparatus has become the default protection force for multinational mining companies, often using lethal force against ordinary citizens,” the statement read.

The coalition recalled that in the early 2000s, following sustained advocacy, the military was withdrawn from mining sites after a Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) investigation revealed severe human rights abuses by security forces. However, NCOM noted with disappointment that military presence has returned even stronger, leading to an escalation of violence.

NCOM’s Demands for Immediate Action

In response to the Obuasi and Ntotroso killings, NCOM has issued the following urgent demands:

1. An Independent Commission of Enquiry

• While welcoming President Mahama’s directive for an investigation, NCOM insists that a Commission of Enquiry should be established to probe both the Obuasi and Ntotroso killings.

• The coalition believes this will ensure accountability, compensate bereaved families, and prevent future abuses.

2. Immediate Withdrawal of Military and Police from Mining Areas

• NCOM has called on the Ministries of Defence and Interior to remove all military personnel from mining concessions, stating that their presence has led to more harm than good.

• They argue that mining companies should engage in constructive dialogue with local communities instead of relying on armed forces for protection.

3. Full Disclosure of Security Agreements Between Government and Mining Companies

• The Ministries of Defence and Interior should make public the terms of military deployments at mining sites, including the rules of engagement for security forces.

4. Respect for International Human Rights Commitments

• Ghana must uphold its human rights obligations, ensuring that state security does not become a tool for corporate interests at the expense of local communities.

A Call for Justice and Long-Term Solutions

NCOM has urged calm in Obuasi while awaiting the outcome of the investigations but insists that without a long-term solution, these violent clashes will continue.

“In other countries, the killing of even one citizen is enough to trigger nationwide outrage and thorough investigations. In Ghana, we risk allowing these injustices to become normalized unless immediate action is taken,” the statement emphasized.

As security remains tight in Obuasi, the people of Ghana and the affected families await the government’s next stepsin addressing these tragic events. NCOM has reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for justice and ensuring that mining communities are protected rather than victimized.

1 comment

Jude Owusu Appiah January 31, 2025 at 2:38 pm

After all, what’s next?

Reply

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