President John Dramani Mahama has directed an immediate investigation into the violent clashes between illegal miners and military personnel at AngloGold Ashanti Mines in Obuasi, which resulted in the loss of eight lives.
In a statement, President Mahama expressed his deep regret over the tragic incident, saying: “The Government wishes to express deep regret over the tragic loss of up to eight (8) lives, said to be illegal miners, following a violent clash at a mining site in Obuasi.”
The President assured that the investigation will determine the circumstances surrounding the clashes and ensure that any individuals found to have acted unlawfully are brought to justice.
The government has also instructed AngloGold Ashanti to bear the medical expenses of the injured individuals and facilitate burial arrangements for the deceased. Security agencies have been tasked with restoring peace in the area and preventing similar incidents.
According to reports, the illegal miners, armed with locally manufactured rifles, pump-action guns, knives, axes, and other tools, opened fire on military personnel when confronted, leading to the fatalities.
The Ghana Armed Forces confirmed the deaths of seven illegal miners, with one seriously injured. The remaining individuals fled the scene.