Residents of Akatakyieso in the Amansie Central District of the Ashanti Region have staged a demonstration against National Security’s seizure of a private mining concession in the area.
The demo, dubbed “Yemmpene” or “We won’t agree”, aims to bring the government’s attention to the alleged misuse of power to frustrate legal miners.
The demonstrators are calling on the President to withdraw National Security personnel from the private mining site, stating that the mine has been operating legally.
Leader of the demonstration, Jonas Owusu, praised the owner of the private mining firm, Michael Owusu, for supporting community development.
“Mr. Owusu has rehabilitated our JHS block, provided security for the chief’s compound, built a police post, constructed a new palace, and supported the aged in the community annually,” he said.
The community demands the immediate removal of security personnel from the site.
The Smart Mickey Mining site operates rock mining, using simple tools to excavate rocks containing gold. According to sources, the private mining firm has all necessary documents, including operational permits.
The protesters say that if the government fails to remove the security personnel within two weeks, the situation may turn violent.
“We won’t allow them to take away our source of income,” the protesters warned.
They noted that the mining firm has created jobs which have contributed to crime reduction in the community.
The demonstration attracted the young and old, and traditional leaders who held placards in solidarity with the concession owner, who they consider the community’s breadwinner.