Police in the Ashanti Region have launched investigations into the fatal clash between small-scale miners and the military on the AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) concession in Obuasi, which resulted in the deaths of nine miners and left several others injured.

Pathologists have been engaged to conduct autopsies, after which the bodies were released to the bereaved families. Meanwhile, four of the injured victims remain on admission at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH).

Although calm has been restored in Obuasi, security has been tightened at AGA’s concession, with schools in the area shutting down temporarily due to the incident.

The violence erupted on Saturday, January 18, 2025, when small-scale miners clashed with military personnel stationed at the AGA site.

President John Mahama has called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the clash and the resulting fatalities.

During a visit to KATH, AGA, and the families of the deceased, Ashanti Regional Minister-Designate, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, assured that investigations had commenced.

He emphasized that pathologists were conducting autopsies, after which the bodies would be released to the bereaved families. He urged the youth and affected families to remain calm and allow the investigative process to take its course.

Meanwhile, the Ghana National Small-Scale Miners Association (GNSSMA) has engaged in discussions with AGA to explore the possibility of ceding part of its concession to the local youth, allowing them access to mining opportunities for their livelihoods.

According to Mr. Godwin Armah, General Secretary of GNSSMA, talks are ongoing to find a solution that balances community interests and responsible mining practices.