They Have Guns We Can’t Match: Northern Ashanti Mines Director Sounds Alarm Over Galamsey Threat

A Director and shareholder of Northern Ashanti Mines, Fredrick Okine, has raised concerns over the growing threat posed by illegal miners operating on the company’s concession, claiming that their activities have left the mining firm vulnerable despite efforts to obtain security assistance from relevant state institutions.

Okine described the illegal miners as unruly, lawless and undisciplined, alleging that some of them carry firearms, making it difficult for the company’s security personnel to effectively protect the concession against their activities.

According to him, Northern Ashanti Mines has taken steps to secure its operations by engaging the Minerals Commission and National Security, but these efforts have not provided the level of protection needed to address the situation.

In a statement highlighting the challenges confronting the company, Okine said the illegal miners appeared to possess a level of force that the firm’s security team could not adequately confront.

They are not only unruly, lawless and undisciplined; they’re also carrying arms. We have security for our concession, but they can’t match the galamseyers, he stated.

His remarks have renewed attention on the security challenges facing mining companies as they attempt to protect their concessions from illegal mining activities, popularly known in Ghana as galamsey.

The alleged presence of armed individuals among illegal mining groups raises concerns about the safety of security personnel, the protection of mining assets and the ability of authorities to enforce regulations within designated mining areas.

Okine’s account also raises questions about the effectiveness of existing security arrangements, particularly when companies have formally sought assistance from institutions responsible for regulating mining operations and maintaining national security.

Although Northern Ashanti Mines has reportedly engaged the Minerals Commission and National Security, Okine’s comments suggest that the company remains concerned about its ability to prevent illegal miners from encroaching on its concession.

The situation highlights the difficulties confronting efforts to combat galamsey, especially where illegal mining operations are allegedly accompanied by intimidation and access to firearms.

Illegal mining has remained a significant concern in Ghana because of its potential consequences for the environment, lawful mining operations and community safety.

Okine’s warning underscores the need for coordinated action between mining companies and relevant state agencies to address security threats and protect legitimate concessions.

However, the specific allegations concerning firearms and the limitations of the company’s security personnel would require independent verification from the appropriate authorities.

For Northern Ashanti Mines, the central concern remains whether existing security measures can provide adequate protection against illegal miners and prevent further threats to its concession.