Two Persons Shot Dead in Clash between Forestry Officers and Miners

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Title: Fatal Clash Between Forestry Officers and Miners Leaves Two Dead and Others Injured in Ashanti Region

Introduction:

In a tragic incident at Mfante near Tepa in the Ahafo Ano North municipality of the Ashanti region, two individuals have lost their lives, and two others sustained injuries following a clash between forestry officers and miners. The incident took place at a community mining site on Friday, escalating tensions in the area.

Details of the Incident:

According to eyewitnesses, forestry officers reportedly stormed the mining site, leading to a clash with the miners. The two deceased individuals were identified as guards responsible for protecting the site. In addition, two miners were injured and are currently receiving medical treatment at the Tepa Government Hospital.

Background of the Community Mining Scheme:

The government, through the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, initiated the community mining scheme in Mfante in 2021. The scheme aimed to generate employment opportunities for approximately 2000 individuals in the area. However, tensions have been simmering between forestry officers and miners in recent years, primarily concerning the legitimacy of mining activities in the region.

Legal Disputes and Clash:

Forestry officers argue that the mining site falls within the forestry zone, highlighting the miners’ lack of legal documentation to support their claim that the area has been designated for community mining. The clash between the forestry officers and miners on Friday resulted from these ongoing disputes, leading to the unfortunate loss of lives.

Community Concerns and Pleas for Government Intervention:

The Assembly member of the Mfante electoral area, Abu Issah, expressed deep concern over the incident, stating that residents now live in fear. Fleeing the area has become a common response among many residents due to the escalating tensions. Issah urgently calls on the government to provide conclusive documentation regarding the community mining scheme, with the aim of resolving the dispute and alleviating fears among the local population.

Investigation and Calls for Justice:

The police have initiated an investigation into the incident. The bereaved family is demanding justice for their loved ones, further emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the clash.

Conclusion:

The clash between forestry officers and miners at the community mining site in Mfante has resulted in the loss of two lives and left two others injured. As tensions continue to rise, residents are living in fear, prompting pleas for government intervention. The police investigation, alongside the demand for justice by the affected family, underlines the urgency of resolving the disputes surrounding the mining activities in the area..