At least seven people were killed in a violent confrontation between soldiers and illegal miners at a mine in Ghana’s Ashanti region, according to the Ghana Armed Forces.
The military stated that approximately 60 armed illegal miners, some carrying “pump-action guns,” forced their way into a mine operated by AngloGold Ashanti. When intercepted, the miners allegedly opened fire on the soldiers, prompting the military to retaliate in self-defense, resulting in fatalities and injuries.
However, a miners’ representative disputed the army’s claim that the group was armed.
Following news of the deaths, protests erupted in the nearby town of Obuasi. Demonstrators stormed AngloGold Ashanti’s premises, setting at least three vehicles and other equipment ablaze.
President John Mahama has ordered an investigation, emphasizing that anyone found to have acted unlawfully would face justice. The presidency stated that eight people were confirmed dead.
The government has directed AngloGold Ashanti to cover the medical expenses of the injured and the burial costs of the deceased. Security forces have been tasked with restoring peace in the area.
AngloGold Ashanti expressed concern for the safety and well-being of its employees and community members and assured that it was cooperating with authorities to address the incident.
Kofi Adams, the local chairman of the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners, described the violence as “unprecedented,” claiming nine people had died and 14 were severely injured. He questioned the military’s justification for using lethal force, pointing out that, in the past, warning shots had sufficed to disperse intruders.
Tensions have long simmered between AngloGold Ashanti and local communities, who accuse the company of exploiting resources without significant development or job creation for the area. Some small-scale mining associations have called for a share of the company’s mining concessions.
The recent clash has heightened attention on Ghana’s ongoing economic challenges, including soaring inflation, unemployment, and public debt. The economic crisis has fueled an increase in small-scale mining, much of it unregulated, which has led to severe environmental damage.
Several schools built and managed by AngloGold Ashanti in the area announced a temporary closure following the unrest.