The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has confirmed that military personnel returned fire in self-defense after being attacked by illegal miners at the AngloGold Ashanti mine in Obuasi on Saturday night. The confrontation, which left seven miners dead and several vehicles destroyed, marks the latest escalation in the country’s ongoing battle against illegal mining.

According to a GAF statement, a group of miners, armed with locally manufactured rifles, pump-action guns, knives, axes, and industrial bolt cutters, fired on soldiers patrolling the mine. In response, the troops engaged in a firefight to protect themselves.

One soldier was injured, struck by pellets from a pump-action gun, but has since received medical treatment and is in stable condition. Military personnel recovered six pump-action BB cartridges from the scene.

The GAF reiterated its authority to use lethal force when necessary to defend its personnel, civilians, and property during authorized duties. The military also issued a stern warning to illegal miners, urging them to refrain from engaging in violent confrontations with troops and to stay away from mining concessions.

This incident is part of a broader crackdown on illegal mining, or “Galamsey,” which has been causing significant environmental and security challenges in the country. The Ghanaian government, through its Operation HALT II initiative, has intensified efforts to curb illegal mining activities and restore order to mining areas.

Source:TheDotNews