Obuasi Gold Mine Shooting Incident: Tensions Erupt in Ghana’s Mining Heartland
Obuasi, Ghana – May 17, 2025 — A violent confrontation erupted late Friday evening at the AngloGold Ashanti’s Obuasi Gold Mine, leaving at least two people critically injured and several others wounded in a shocking escalation of tensions between illegal miners and private security forces.
Eyewitnesses reported that the shooting occurred around 7:30 PM, near the northern perimeter of the mine’s concession. According to local sources, a group of galamseyers (illegal miners) attempted to access a restricted section of the mine. Security personnel allegedly fired warning shots which quickly escalated into live rounds being discharged.
“We heard gunshots everywhere. People were running and screaming,†said Kofi Mensah, a local resident. “It was chaos. We’ve never seen anything like this before.â€
Two individuals, believed to be part of the illegal mining group, were rushed to Obuasi Government Hospital with gunshot wounds. Unconfirmed reports suggest one remains in critical condition. The Ghana Police Service has since cordoned off the area, launching a full investigation into the cause and legality of the use of force by the private security team.
AngloGold Ashanti, the South African-based mining giant that operates the site, has released a brief statement expressing regret over the incident and affirming cooperation with local authorities. “The safety of all persons on or near our concession remains our top priority. We are working closely with the police to ensure a thorough investigation,†the statement read.
This incident brings to the forefront ongoing tensions surrounding Ghana’s mining industry, especially in Obuasi — a town historically known for gold production but plagued in recent years by illegal mining activities and land disputes.
Community leaders have called for calm, urging both the mining company and local youth to engage in dialogue. “We cannot allow violence to define our future. The youth need jobs, and the company must take more responsibility in its corporate social engagement,†said Nana Kwaku Bempah, a traditional authority in the region.
Ghana’s Minerals Commission has condemned the violence and is expected to meet with stakeholders in the coming days.
My Comment: This tragic event highlights a growing crisis in Ghana’s gold mining sector: the clash between economic desperation and industrial control. Without inclusive solutions, such incidents may only worsen.
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