The Chiefs and residents of Tontokrom, located in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region, have formally petitioned the Ashanti Regional Minister over a long-standing land dispute with Asanko Mining and alleged military brutality in the area.

At the heart of the conflict is a contested mining concession, which Asanko Mining claims legal ownership of. However, the Tontokrom community firmly asserts that the land rightfully belongs to them.

Tensions escalated after military personnel were deployed to the area, reportedly to protect the company’s interests.

Residents accuse the military of harassment and excessive force, with allegations of brutalities that have resulted in several deaths.

They say the presence of the military has created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity in the community.

In their petition, the residents are calling for the immediate withdrawal of the military and the return of the land to the community.

Following a closed-door meeting with the Ashanti Regional Minister, Nana Adu Gyamfi, a representative of the Tontokrom Traditional Council, expressed gratitude for the Minister’s willingness to address the issue.

Mr. Frank Owusu, Secretary of the Tontokrom Unit Committee, also commended the Minister’s intervention and urged swift action to bring peace to the area.