The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources has directed the revocation of the Akango, Salman and Nkroful mining leases of Adamus Resources Limited following confirmed violations of Ghana’s minerals and mining laws.
This directive is premised on investigation reports submitted by the Minerals Commission, which established unauthorised and illegal mining activities in the said concessions in breach of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), and related regulations.
Key Findings of the Investigation Reports
The investigations, supported by documentary and pictorial evidence, revealed that the company sub-contracted mining operations on their concessions to the Chinese for galamsey.
A statement by the Ministry said the mining activities were undertaken without approved mining operating plans or valid operating permits issued by the Chief Inspector of Mines as required under Regulation 8(1) of the Minerals and Mining (Health, Safety and Technical) Regulations, 2012 (LI 2182).
Additionally, it cited the company for failing to obtain the requisite approvals from regulatory agencies, including the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), in accordance with section 18 of Act 703.
It also noted that mining operations observed were substandard and were conducted outside designated mining areas and far from approved mine infrastructure, resulting in significant environmental degradation, including land disturbance and damage to ecosystems, posing risks to water bodies, public health, and community livelihoods.
Sanction
The Ministry thus noted that the immediate revocation of the mineral rights of the company was warranted in the public interest and pursuant to section 100(2) of Act 703.
It added, “The revocation is without prejudice to any criminal charges that may be preferred against Adamus Resources Limited, and their respective directors and management under the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 995).”
Meanwhile, it assured that it will take steps to safeguard the lawful jobs and livelihoods of workers affected by the decision and will announce appropriate measures in due course.
Story by Hajara Fuseini
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Source:
opemsuo.com