Mining company, Asanko Gold Ghana Ltd., has denied claims made by some residents of Tontokrom alleging that the company deployed military personnel to harass and intimidate locals.
The company, in a press release on Sunday, July 27, clarified the presence of military forces in the area, stating it was part of a state-sanctioned security intervention to address illegal mining activities.
The clarification follows a press conference held by community members on Saturday, July 26, during which accusations were levelled against the company for allegedly involving the military in ways that negatively impacted the local population.
“We emphasise that there is absolutely no intention to intimidate, harass, or interfere with the peaceful lives of community members,” the company stated.
According to Asanko Gold, the deployment of military personnel was authorised by the Ghana Armed Forces, coordinated with support from the Ghana Chamber of Mines, and sanctioned by the Ministry of Defence. The company maintains that the intervention is part of a broader national effort to protect legally licensed mining operations from the increasing threats posed by illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey.”
Asanko revealed that the Tontokrom concession, acquired from AngloGold Ashanti, had progressed into key phases of development, with an investment of over $16 million into exploration, community development, and relocation planning. However, the project was halted after illegal miners forcibly occupied the concession, causing delays and significant environmental damage.
In response, Asanko Gold, through the Ghana Chamber of Mines, raised its concerns with the government, prompting the deployment of security personnel to protect the site and ensure legal compliance.
Asanko stressed that the military intervention was not unique to their company but part of a standardized national security programme targeting illegal mining hotspots across the country. The company also highlighted that extensive stakeholder engagement had preceded the deployment.
“Comprehensive stakeholder engagement sessions chaired by the District Security Councils (DISEC) of both the Amansie West and Amansie South Districts were held,” the release noted.
“Stakeholders, including community leaders, were encouraged to support the process and promote peaceful self-evacuation from unauthorised mining sites.”
The company reported that in other areas, many illegal miners had voluntarily withdrawn following similar interventions, and expressed hope that Tontokrom would follow suit.
Asanko Gold reaffirmed its commitment to community partnership, responsible mining, and open dialogue, urging the public to disregard what it described as “inaccurate claims” made at the press conference.
“These assertions misrepresent the reality on the ground and risk undermining the collaborative efforts and goodwill built over time between Asanko Gold and its host communities,” the statement read.
The company pledged to continue working with traditional leaders, youth groups, and civil society to support development and peaceful coexistence in the area.