
The Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners (GNASSM) has condemned the violent clashes between the youth of Obuasi and members of Operation Halt II, a military taskforce, which resulted in the tragic deaths of nine individuals at AngloGold Ashanti’s mining site on January 18, 2025.
Fourteen others remain in critical condition at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.
In a statement, GNASSM General Secretary, Godwin Amarh, expressed deep concern over the incident, describing it as a gross violation of human rights and calling for accountability.
“While the GNASSM does not encourage or condone trespassing on mining concessions, we strongly believe that the military could have employed alternative measures to apprehend the trespassers and bring them to justice, rather than engaging in a firefight”.
“This act of violence is a gross violation of human rights and contravenes the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (VPSHR), which provide guidelines for mining companies to respect human rights and prevent harm to local communities” he stated.
GNASSM further welcomes President John Dramani Mahama’s directive for an immediate investigation into the tragedy and the government’s call for AngloGold Ashanti to bear the medical and burial expenses for the victims.
“We appreciate the government’s directive to the management of Anglo Gold Ashanti to fully bear the medical expenses of the injured and facilitate the burial arrangements for the deceased. These actions demonstrate a commitment to accountability and compassion”.
The association also urged calm, assuring the public of its commitment to working with stakeholders to uncover the truth and seek lasting solutions to the recurring tensions in Obuasi.
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