The Government of Ghana has expressed profound regret over the tragic death of eight individuals, reportedly illegal miners, following a violent clash at the AngloGold Ashanti mining site in Obuasi.
The incident has sparked public outcry and concerns over the safety of both mining sites and communities in Obuasi. Civil society organizations have called for a thorough investigation to ensure transparency and accountability.
Given the above, President John Dramani Mahama has ordered an immediate investigation into the matter to uncover the circumstances surrounding the fatalities and hold accountable those found culpable.
In a statement signed by Acting Presidential Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the government emphasized its commitment to justice and urged the security agencies to take prompt action to restore peace in the area and implement measures to prevent similar occurrences
“Government has meanwhile asked the management of Anglo-Gold Ashanti to bear the medical expenses of the injured individuals fully and to facilitate the burial arrangements for those who have lost their lives.”
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Ag. Spokesperson to the President.
The statement further underscored the government’s commitment to protect the sanctity of human life and is committed to ensuring that justice prevails for all affected by this unfortunate incident.
Military’s Account of Events
According to a press release issued by the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), the violent clash occurred on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at approximately 11:00 p.m., when a group of about 60 illegal miners breached AngloGold Ashanti’s security perimeter at the Cote d’Or Ramp, attempting to access the Deep Decline of the mines.
The military patrol deployed under Operation HALT II duties encountered armed resistance from the miners, who reportedly wielded locally manufactured rifles, pump-action guns, and various weapons, including knives, axes, and machetes.
The press release stated that the illegal miners fired upon the soldiers, prompting the troops to return fire in self-defence. The exchange of gunfire led to the deaths of seven illegal miners, with one individual sustaining critical injuries.
A soldier was also injured after being struck by pellets from a pump-action gun. The injured soldier has since received medical treatment, and the military retrieved six pump-action cartridges from the scene.
“Military personnel on authorized duty have the right to use lethal force if necessary to preserve life. Illegal miners are advised to desist from engaging troops in shootouts, as the consequences could be fatal”.
Brigadier General E. Aggrey-Quashie, Director-General of Public Relations
The Ghana Armed Forces reiterated its stance on protecting life and property, emphasizing the right of military personnel to defend themselves and others when under attack.
The statement from Brigadier General E. Aggrey-Quashie, Director-General of Public Relations, warned against similar actions.
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