The management of Asanko Gold Ghana Limited, which operates the Asanko Gold Mine in the Ashanti Region, has strongly condemned the tragic murder of its security personnel and a civilian by illegal miners at Tontokrom. The incident occurred during a clash with some aggrieved residents on Saturday afternoon.
According to a statement released by the company, private security officials were patrolling the Tontokrom concession when they were suddenly attacked by illegal miners who were hiding in the bushes. These illegal miners emerged with various weapons, including guns, clubs, and machetes, causing the security officers to retreat as they were unarmed. Unfortunately, two security officers were captured and brutally lynched to death by the illegal miners.
Asanko Mine emphasized that illegal miners, who are not residents of Tontokrom, have been encroaching on the company’s legally held concessions for years. These illegal miners have also been harassing Asanko’s staff and contractors, creating a hostile environment for legitimate operations.
The company highlighted that the activities of illegal miners are undermining the efforts of the government and mining authorities to position Ghana as a top destination for mining investments. As a result, they are calling for a thorough investigation into the matter.
In conclusion, Asanko Mines assured its employees, contractors, and community members of enhanced security measures moving forward to prevent such tragic incidents from occurring again.
