Tontokrom Residents Draw Red Line: “We’ll Defend Our Land with Our Lives”

Tontokrom Residents Draw Red Line: “We’ll Defend Our Land with Our Lives”

Tontokrom, Amansie South District,Tension is boiling over in the mining town of Tontokrom as residents vow to resist what they describe as a looming “forced eviction” by Asanko Gold Mining Company to make way for expanded mining operations.

A recent meeting at the District Assembly, which residents claim included a proposal to relocate the entire town, has reignited the long‑standing feud over ownership of the community’s ancestral lands.

Residents accuse Asanko Gold of a sustained campaign of intimidation, allegedly backed by military force, that has led to injuries, deaths, and widespread fear.

At an emergency press briefing, community leaders issued their starkest warning yet.

“The lands belong to us. Asanko has no legitimate documents to prove ownership. We will not move today, tomorrow, or ever,” declared Nana Adu Gyamfi Kumanini, Mmamahene of Tontokrom. “We have never signed any agreement with Asanko Mining Company, and we will not allow soldiers to drive us out of the lands of our ancestors.”

Frustration among the youth is reaching a breaking point.
Kwadwo Addo, a local youth leader, cautioned:
“We don’t need soldiers in our town. Every time they come, they brutalise and kill our people. If the government won’t protect us, we will defend ourselves.”

Others shared chilling memories of past attacks.
Sofo Maame, a long‑time resident, recounted:
“Last year, soldiers came and shot at us. People died. They want to scare us off our own land. This time, we will not run. We will fight back.”

The residents are calling on President John Dramani Mahama, the Ashanti Regional Minister, and the Ministers for Defence and Interior to urgently step in before the situation spirals out of control.

“We are not leaving Tontokrom. If they force us, there will be blood,” one community elder said.

For further information, contact:

Nana Addo – 0247733818

Emmanuel Appiah – 0537784816

Nana Adu Gyamfi Kumanini – 0505208869

Source: Justice Baffour//www.dailywatchgh.com