Seven killed, one injured in clash between illegal miners and soldiers at AngloGold Ashanti Mines – GAF

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The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) have confirmed the deaths of seven illegal miners following a violent confrontation with soldiers at the AngloGold Ashanti Mines in Obuasi.

The clash occurred late on Saturday, January 18, 2025, around 11:00 PM, when a group of about 60 illegal miners breached the mine’s security fence and attempted to access the Deep Decline area.

 

A statement from the Department of Public Relations at the GAF revealed that the miners were armed with locally manufactured rifles, pump-action guns, knives, axes, gas cylinders, and other tools. When confronted, the miners reportedly opened fire on the soldiers. “The troops returned fire in self-defence. The shootout led to the death of seven illegal miners and one seriously injured. The remaining illegal miners bolted away,” the statement noted.

 

During the confrontation, one soldier sustained injuries after being hit by pellets from a pump-action gun but has since received medical treatment. Soldiers at the scene also retrieved six pump-action BB cartridges. The GAF emphasized that personnel on authorized duty are empowered to use lethal force when necessary to protect lives and property.

 

“The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) wishes to reiterate its caution to all and sundry that military personnel on authorised duty have the right to defend themselves, innocent civilians, and property, including the use of lethal force, if necessary to preserve life,” said Brigadier General E. Aggrey-Quashie, Director General of Public Relations. He also urged illegal miners to avoid mining concessions and to refrain from engaging in violent confrontations with troops. “GAF wishes to urge all illegal miners to stay away from mining concessions and also desist from engaging troops in shootouts since the consequences of such actions could be fatal,” the statement added.

 

Illegal mining activities at the AngloGold Ashanti Mines in Obuasi have posed significant challenges to safety and operations. The GAF’s Operation HALT II has been ongoing to curb illegal mining and ensure the protection of mining assets.

 

The GAF has appealed to the public and illegal miners to heed these warnings and respect mining boundaries to prevent further loss of life. This tragic incident underscores the dangers associated with illegal mining and the need for strict adherence to safety protocols.

 

 

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