The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has confirmed that military personnel returned fire in self-defense after a violent confrontation with illegal miners at the AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) mine in Obuasi on Saturday night.
The clash, which occurred on January 18, saw small-scale miners and soldiers guarding the AGA Obuasi Mine engage in a shootout that left seven miners dead and several vehicles destroyed. The incident took place in Obuasi, located in the Ashanti Region.
According to a statement from the GAF, the illegal miners, armed with locally made rifles, pump-action guns, gas cylinders, knives, axes, machetes, and industrial bolt cutters, initiated the attack on soldiers on patrol. In response, the military returned fire in an act of self-defense.
The exchange of gunfire resulted in the deaths of seven illegal miners, with one other sustaining serious injuries. The remaining miners fled the scene. One soldier was injured by pellets from a pump-action gun but has since received medical attention and is reported to be in stable condition. Six pump-action BB cartridges were recovered from the site.
The GAF emphasized that its personnel have the right to protect themselves, innocent civilians, and property during authorized operations, including the use of lethal force if necessary.
“The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) wishes to reiterate its caution to all that military personnel on authorized duty have the right to defend themselves, innocent civilians, and property, including the use of lethal force if necessary to preserve life,” the statement read.
Furthermore, the GAF issued a stern warning to illegal miners, urging them to avoid mining concessions and refrain from violent confrontations with military personnel.
“GAF urges all illegal miners to stay away from mining concessions and to avoid engaging troops in shootouts, as the consequences of such actions could be fatal,” the statement added.
The Ghanaian government has long warned against illegal mining, also known as “Galamsey,” which has caused significant environmental damage and posed security risks. The military’s Operation HALT II, an ongoing initiative to curb illegal mining activities, aims to restore order in mining regions.
The Ghana Armed Forces reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s resources and ensuring the security of both civilians and security personnel.
