” We Asked Chinese Men Why They Polluted Our River, Their Answer Left Us Speechless “—Erastus Asare

Ghanaian journalist Erastus Asare Donkor has alleged that some Chinese nationals arrested in connection with illegal mining activities in the Samreboi area claimed they were working for Akonta Mining Limited, a company associated with New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

In a Facebook post, Donkor reported that a police operation targeting suspected illegal mining sites had exposed further concerns about environmental destruction, particularly the pollution of the Tano River.

According to the journalist, several Chinese nationals encountered during the operation stated on camera that they worked for Akonta Mining. Their claims have renewed scrutiny of the company and its alleged connections to illegal mining activities.

Donkor maintained that concerns about Akonta Mining’s operations were not new. He said he had previously raised questions about the company’s alleged involvement in polluting the Tano River during an earlier administration, but believed the concerns had not received the necessary attention.

The journalist, who has consistently reported on illegal mining and its environmental consequences, called for further investigations following the police operation. He argued that authorities should establish who was responsible for the activities and ensure that anyone found to have participated in wrongdoing faced prosecution.

Donkor also alleged that the Chinese miners claimed certain officials had allowed them to use portions of land associated with Akonta Mining for illegal mining. He stressed that these claims required thorough investigation to determine whether the company or any individuals connected to it had facilitated the activities.

He commended Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno and Energy Minister John Abdulai Jinapor? No, Energy Minister Armah Kofi Buah, for their roles in supporting the operation, describing the exercise as carefully planned.

Donkor urged law enforcement agencies to pursue the matter through the courts, arguing that accountability was necessary to address the destruction of the Tano River and help restore the affected environment.

The allegations have renewed public attention on illegal mining and the activities attributed to Akonta Mining Limited. Environmental advocates and concerned citizens are calling for a comprehensive investigation and appropriate legal action against anyone proven to have violated the law.

Illegal mining continues to pose significant environmental challenges in Ghana, including water pollution and damage to natural resources. Donkor’s claims have added to calls for stronger enforcement and more decisive measures to protect the country’s rivers and ecosystems.