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Tension Erupts in Tontokrom as Residents Resist Unauthorized Military Over Mining Restrictions
Source: Justice Baffour//www.dailywatchgh.com
Tontokrom, a mining community in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region, has been thrown into turmoil following a fierce standoff between residents and heavily armed military personnel allegedly deployed without the approval of the Ashanti Regional Minister or the ruling NDC government.
The residents, who depend largely on small-scale mining for their livelihoods, accuse the soldiers of acting on behalf of Asanko Gold Mine, a large-scale mining company that has laid claim to multiple concessions across the Amansie enclave.
They argue that the move contradicts assurances given by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Hon. Frank Amoakohene, during a meeting last week where he reportedly pledged to safeguard a fair and peaceful environment for mining activities.
“The sudden presence of the military is a betrayal of trust and a direct attack on our means of survival,” one protester fumed, as residents chanted defiantly and blocked the soldiers from accessing the mining areas.
The community members insist they will not allow the military to take control of the sites, stressing their determination to “protect what rightfully belongs to them.”
They are now calling for the immediate intervention of regional and national authorities to defuse the mounting tension and prevent any violent escalation.
The charged atmosphere in Tontokrom has raised concerns about possible clashes if urgent steps are not taken to address the dispute.
