The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai in the Western Region, Sebastian Obeng, has raised serious concerns over the involvement of some local actors in illegal mining activities following a deadly clash at Asawinso that claimed one life and left several others injured.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Obeng alleged that the land at the centre of the violence was originally sold for illegal mining purposes, deepening tensions in the area.
According to him, the Adontenhene for Ntakam, Nana Ayensu, who resides in Beposo, is believed to have sold the land to a man known as Obidi for galamsey operations.
“He is a chief at Ntakam but stays in Beposo. He sold the land to Obidi for galamsey and not for farming. He also came to the site to engage the Asawinso chief and pleaded with him that they go home and resolve the matter,” Mr. Obeng stated.
He explained that the situation escalated when the Asawinso Chief intervened to stop mining activities on the site, leading to confrontations involving rival groups and traditional authorities.
“The illegal miners on site at the time also called the owner, Obidi, to inform him that the Asawinso chief had invaded the site to stop their operations. Obidi then called some thugs led by Afoko and Baako Bewu, who ambushed and attacked the people,” he explained.
Mr. Obeng expressed concern over the growing influence of individuals he described as “untouchable” within illegal mining spaces, warning that such actions undermine law enforcement and community safety.
“Galamsey is a bane in the area, so we appealed to the traditional authorities to help us fight the menace. But look at this situation — a chief selling land for galamsey. The miners will feel nobody can interfere with their operations,” he said.
He assured that authorities will visit the site while police continue investigations and pursue other accomplices linked to the violence.
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