Tensions Rise in Manso Mpatasie Over Illegal Mining Crackdown
A clash between residents and national security personnel at Manso Mpatasie in the Amansie South district, Ashanti Region, has left one person injured and admitted to St. Martin Catholic Hospital, Agroyesum.
The incident occurred when security officers attempted to track down packed excavators believed to have been used for illegal mining, sparking a confrontation with aggrieved residents and miners.
The convener of the aggrieved residents, Mr. Kwaku Bobie, claimed that the security officers’ actions were unlawful since the excavators were not found at mining sites and sparked the community’s anger.
The residents believe the excavators are being targeted unfairly since they were parked at home.
The assembly member for the community, Hon. George Acheampong, expressed concerns about the recent activities of security agencies against small-scale miners. He stated that attacking individuals at their homes could undermine government efforts to combat illegal mining.
Some youth in the community used the occasion to appeal to President Mahama and the NDC government to consider the plight of the youth and put proper measures in place to enable them to get job opportunities in the mining sector.
The situation highlights the complexities surrounding illegal mining in Ghana and the need for a balanced approach that addresses the concerns of both the government and local communities.
