AngloGold Ashanti Ghana has confirmed a violent confrontation between illegal miners and military personnel within its secured operational area in the northern section of the Obuasi concession.
The incident, which occurred on January 18, 2025, in the Ashanti Region, escalated tensions in the area, resulting in the destruction of four vehicles that were set ablaze during the clash.
In a statement issued on January 19, AngloGold Ashanti disclosed that a large group of armed illegal miners attempted to forcefully breach the mine's infrastructure.
The company assured the public that calm has been restored and highlighted its ongoing collaboration with relevant authorities to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“On the evening of January 18, an incident occurred in the fenced operational area in the northern part of our Obuasi concession,” the company stated. “A large group of armed illegal miners attempted to forcibly gain unauthorized access to mine infrastructure. Authorities mobilized to defend against this attack and to ensure the safety and security of employees and those in the immediate surroundings.”
The statement further emphasized that the situation had been stabilized and reaffirmed AngloGold Ashanti's commitment to prioritizing the safety of its employees and the local community.
The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) also issued a statement, explaining that military personnel acted in self-defence after illegal miners opened fire on them. Tragically, seven illegal miners lost their lives in the clash, while several others, including a member of the security forces, sustained injuries.
In response, the government has launched an investigation into the incident and directed AngloGold Ashanti to cover the medical expenses of the injured individuals.
Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Obuasi West, Kwaku Kwarteng, has called for an immediate and thorough probe into the matter.
