- A confrontation at Asanko Gold’s concession in Mpatoam left two civilians dead, including an Assemblyman.
- The clash involved military personnel deployed under a state-mandated security operation.
- Asanko Gold expressed condolences and pledged cooperation with authorities.
- MP Tweneboa Kododua Fokuo condemned the incident and demanded justice.
- The event has reignited tensions over mining practices and community safety.
A deadly confrontation at Asanko Gold Ghana’s mining concession near Mpatoam in the Amansie South District has triggered national outrage, following reports that military personnel deployed as part of a state-mandated security operation clashed violently with local residents.
The incident, which occurred on September 9, left two civilians dead — including an elected Assemblyman — and resulted in extensive property damage. Eyewitness accounts and community leaders say tensions erupted after local youth accused the mine’s security team of killing a miner the previous day. In response, residents blocked roads and stormed military camps, prompting a forceful reaction from soldiers stationed at the site.
Asanko Gold Ghana confirmed the military presence was part of a broader security initiative coordinated by the Ghana Chamber of Mines. The company expressed condolences to affected families and pledged to work with government officials and community leaders to restore calm.
But the fallout has been swift. Member of Parliament for Manso Nkwanta, Tweneboa Kododua Fokuo, condemned the violence as a “heinous act” and called for immediate accountability. His statement reflects growing frustration over the use of armed force in mining disputes and the lack of transparency surrounding security operations on corporate concessions.
The clash has reignited long-standing tensions between mining companies and host communities, many of whom feel excluded from decision-making and exploited by extractive operations. Calls for justice are mounting, with civil society groups demanding an independent investigation and reforms to how security is deployed in mining zones.
As investigations continue, the tragedy at Mpatoam stands as a stark reminder of the fragile relationship between resource extraction and community rights — and the urgent need for dialogue, oversight, and accountability.
