Two demonstrators have reportedly been killed during a protest against illegal mining activities (galamsey) at Abosso, near Tarkwa, in Ghana’s Western Region.
The incident occurred when police attempted to disperse residents who had taken to the streets to protest the alleged handover of an illegal mining site to some Chinese operators. Tensions reportedly escalated, leading to unrest within the community and the blocking of major roads.
Although the Western Central Regional Police Command in Tarkwa has indicated that the incident has not yet been officially confirmed, a local government official has corroborated the reports. Louis Afful, the Deputy Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) for the Prestea-Huni-Valley Municipality, told Channel One News that he personally witnessed the shooting.
According to Mr Afful, a police patrol team arrived in the community and fired warning shots in an attempt to control the situation. During the process, two individuals were shot and later pronounced dead.
“This morning, a police patrol squad came to town to fire warning shots. As I speak, two people have lost their lives. The community members have also blocked the road,” he stated.
The bodies of the deceased have since been conveyed to the morgue at the Tarkwa Government Hospital.
The incident has further heightened concerns over the handling of protests related to illegal mining, which continues to pose serious environmental and social challenges across several parts of Ghana. Investigations are expected to clarify the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths.
Source: Yen.com.gh
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