Assin Kumasi:Tension is mounting in the Assin South District of the Central Region as farmers and sand-winning operators clash over the destruction of farmlands. Farmers accuse these operators of damaging cocoa, plantations, and cassava farms without consent or compensation, threatening their livelihoods.
According to Ghana News Agency, aggrieved farmers, joined by some traditional leaders, have protested at the affected sites, demanding an immediate halt to the activities. Protesters were seen wearing red armbands and carrying cutlasses, sticks, and clubs in their demonstration against the alleged destruction.
Nana Kwaw Awere I, the Chief of Assin Kumasi, alleged that a prominent individual from Abakrampa was behind the sand-winning operations. He urged authorities to investigate and protect the farmers' interests, preventing further damage to their lands.
However, Mr. Richard Nkrumah, CEO of Eagle Rich Company Limited, defended the sand-winning operations. He stated that the land was leased by the Paramount Chief of the Abura Traditional Area, Nana Otu XI. Mr. Nkrumah also claimed that his company had secured necessary permits from the Environmental Protection Authority and the Minerals Commission.
The confrontation has raised tensions in the community, sparking fears of potential escalation if the dispute is not resolved promptly.