At Least Seven Killed as Soldiers Clash With Illegal Miners in Ghana

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has confirmed the deaths of at least seven illegal miners following a violent clash with military personnel at the AngloGold Ashanti mining site over the weekend.

In a statement signed by Brigadier General E. Aggrey-Quashie, Director General of Public Relations, the clash occurred around 11:00 pm when approximately 60 illegal miners breached the mine’s security fence at Côte d’Or Ramp.

The miners, armed with rifles, pump-action guns, machetes, and other tools, reportedly attempted to access the Deep Decline section of the mine when a firefight broke out between them and the soldiers. The military stated it acted in self-defence, as one soldier was injured during the confrontation.

Following news of the deaths, protests erupted in Obuasi town, with angry residents storming the company’s grounds. At least three vehicles and other equipment belonging to the company were set ablaze, and several buses were also torched.

Meanwhile, President John Mahama has ordered an investigation into the incident, vowing that anyone found to have acted unlawfully will face justice.

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