Ghanaian journalist Erastus Asare Donkor has made serious allegations about illegal mining activities in Samereboi, a town in Ghana. According to Donkor, Chinese nationals involved in illicit mining operations were working for Akonta Mining Limited, a company owned by Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, a prominent leader of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). A recent police raid on these sites uncovered extensive environmental damage, particularly to the Tano River, which has been heavily polluted.
The journalist claims that the Chinese workers confessed to being employed by Akonta Mining Limited, a company under scrutiny for its environmental impact. Donkor is calling for a deeper investigation and prosecution of those responsible, including government officials who may have allowed these activities to continue. He praised the efforts of Inspector General of Police Yohuno and Minister of Energy Armah Kofi Buah for their role in the successful raid.
However, Chairman Wontumi has denied these allegations, stating that Akonta Mining is not operational and has not housed illegal miners. He claims to have a legitimate license to mine on his site but had stopped mining due to the activities of illegal miners on his land. Wontumi also mentioned that his company is focused on rehabilitating the land, including funding a contractor to reclaim the degraded area and plant 15,000 coconut trees.
The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has accused Akonta Mining of unauthorized mining in the Tano Nimiri and Aboi Forest Reserves. He alleges that the company sold access to illegal miners for up to GHS 300,000 per concession and received weekly gold royalties. The minister has announced the revocation of Akonta Mining’s lease and forwarded the case to the Attorney General for potential prosecution.
Donkor’s allegations have sparked renewed calls for accountability and action against environmental crimes. The journalist’s report highlights the need for authorities to take concrete steps to address the issue and ensure those responsible are held accountable. The protection of the environment and the rule of law is paramount in this case.
The incident raises questions about the role of Akonta Mining in the illegal mining activities and whether the company facilitated environmental crimes. Further investigations are necessary to determine the extent of the company’s involvement and to hold those responsible accountable. The case has sparked a heated debate, with some accusing the government of politically motivated actions against Chairman Wontumi and Akonta Mining.
Key Developments:
– Allegations Against Akonta Mining: Accused of selling concessions to illegal miners and receiving gold royalties.
– Government Action: Revocation of Akonta Mining’s lease and potential prosecution.
– Environmental Impact: Significant damage to the Tano River and ecosystem.
– Calls for Accountability: Journalist Erastus Asare Donkor and environmental groups demand action against those responsible.
Story by: Ohemaa Adusi-Poku
