An Elected Official and Three Others Arrested for Violent Assault During Illegal Mining Crackdown
An elected official and three others face arrest after allegedly leading a violent assault on security officers during an illegal mining crackdown in Ghana’s Ashanti Region.
Patrick Asare, Assemblyman for Bonteso in Amansie South District, was detained Wednesday alongside Akwesi Amponsah, Osei Vasco, and Owusu Alexander.
Key Points:
- The confrontation occurred during a routine patrol by the Special Anti-Galamsey Task Force.
- Patrick Asare allegedly mobilized miners to block exit routes and threaten officers to prevent the seizure of an excavator.
- Violence erupted with miners hurling stones and firing guns at security officers.
- Despite injuries to officers, the team managed to disperse the crowd and secure the equipment.
- All four suspects will be transferred to Accra for prosecution, signaling a significant development in Ghana’s fight against illegal mining.
This incident marks a troubling escalation in Ghana’s ongoing battle against illegal mining activities, highlighting the challenges faced by authorities in enforcing regulations and protecting natural resources.
