Atronie: Irate youth of Atronie in the Sunyani Municipality have issued a one-week ultimatum to illegal miners, demanding the removal of their machinery and mining equipment from an illicit mining site in the area. The youth warned that failure to comply would result in the destruction of the equipment by fire.
According to Ghana News Agency, the youth, speaking through Nana Yaw Ampofo, spokesperson and Secretary to the Atronie Traditional Authority, expressed their determination to halt all mining activities in the area. The Traditional Authority, which aligns with the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, emphasized that they have learned valuable lessons from other regions and are resolute in preventing any mining operations on their land.
The community has already engaged with the Police after receiving reports of the illegal miners' activities. Despite repeated governmental warnings, these miners have persisted in their operations on the Atronie stool land, threatening the Amoma River, forest resources, and fertile farmlands.
Nana Ampofo highlighted the critical importance of the Amoma River as the primary drinking water source for Atronie Township and approximately 30 surrounding farming communities. He alleged that illegal mining activities have jeopardized local safety, preventing residents from accessing their farms due to the presence of private security guards hired by the miners.
In an assertive statement, Nana Ampofo declared the community's commitment to protecting their arable lands, cocoa farms, and forest cover. He issued a stern warning to the illegal miners, indicating that if the ultimatum is not heeded, the community will take action to destroy the miners' machinery.
Nana Ampofo also appealed for intervention from the government and relevant stakeholders to address the situation before it escalates further. He maintained that the community's actions are driven by a desire to safeguard their lands, farms, and natural resources, emphasizing their peaceful intentions.
A site visit by the Ghana News Agency revealed the presence of seven excavators, two Chanfan machines, and tents at the illegal mining location. The site was guarded by five armed men in traditional regalia, strategically positioned to protect the miners' activities, known locally as 'galamsey'. Additionally, the miners have constructed a road through farmland, causing extensive crop destruction.