By Felix Cofie
The Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Isaac Tandoh, has defended government’s decision to revoke the mining leases of Adamus Resources Limited, describing the company’s actions as “systematic and flagrant violations” of Ghana’s mining laws.
Addressing a press conference in Accra on Monday, Mr. Tandoh said the decision by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, was based on extensive investigations and was taken in the national interest.
The revoked leases cover the Akango, Salman, and Nkroful concessions.
Evidence-Based Decision
According to Mr. Tandoh, inspections by the Commission’s Inspectorate Division uncovered clear breaches of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), supported by on-site inspections and pictorial evidence.
He stressed that the revocation was “neither arbitrary nor politically motivated,” but a lawful response to persistent violations.
Major Breaches Identified
The Commission outlined several serious infractions by Adamus Resources, including:
• Unlawful assignment of mineral rights to third parties without ministerial approval
• Mining activities outside approved concession areas
• Absence of defined mineral reserves to justify operations
• Active mining without approved operational plans or permits
• Engagement of foreign nationals, particularly Chinese operators, in illegal mining (galamsey)
Investigators also found that heavy machinery, including excavators and bulldozers, were deployed at sites far from the company’s approved infrastructure.
Environmental Damage and Revenue Loss
Mr. Tandoh warned that the illegal operations had caused significant environmental degradation, including land destruction and threats to water bodies.
He added that such activities not only endanger public health but also deprive the state of legitimate mining revenue.
Immediate Revocation Justified
While mining laws typically allow companies time to remedy breaches, the Commission argued that the severity and deliberate nature of the violations justified immediate action.
The revocation was carried out under provisions of Act 703, following recommendations by the Commission.
Possible Prosecution
The CEO indicated that the action does not preclude criminal proceedings against Adamus Resources and its directors under the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 995).
Stronger Crackdown on Illegal Mining
Mr. Tandoh issued a strong warning to mining companies, stating that the Commission will not tolerate the abuse of mineral rights or the use of leases to facilitate illegal mining.
“The era of impunity is over,” he declared, adding that companies operating outside the law will face sanctions, including cancellation of their licenses.
Push for Local Participation
The Commission also used the platform to reiterate its policy direction on local content, encouraging greater participation of Ghanaian-owned firms in mining operations.
Under existing regulations, surface mining contract operations are reserved for indigenous Ghanaian companies, while underground mining requires at least 50 percent Ghanaian participation in partnerships.
Commitment to Enforcement
Mr. Tandoh assured that the Commission will intensify unannounced inspections and enforcement actions to ensure compliance across the sector.
He emphasised that Ghana remains open to responsible investment, but warned that any attempt to use mineral rights to mask illegal mining activities will be met with decisive action.
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Source:
www.gbcghanaonline.com