Gov’t deploys troops to Obuasi mine

The deployment came after AngloGold Ashanti dragged Ghana to the International Center for Settlement of Investment Disputes over inadequate security at its Obuasi mines.

“The government has shown in this instance that it is within its power to peacefully, and speedily restore law and order at the mine,” AngloGold Ashanti Ghana Managing Director Eric Asubonteng, said.

“We will redouble our efforts to have the authorities replicate this effort on the significant remainder of the operational area, where illegal miners continue to operate with impunity,” he said.

According to AngloGold Ashanti, as many as 64 illegal miners have died in accidents on the areas of the site that its personnel can no longer access.

“There are likely more fatalities that have not come to the attention of the company, and this number will likely grow further whilst this lawlessness is allowed to continue. AngloGold Ashanti Ghana is deeply saddened at this tragic loss of life and sends its condolences to the families of the deceased,” the mining giant said in a statement.

“However, unless and until the company’s concession areas are fully cleared of illegal miners and the company can assess the damage caused over the past six months, the company remains subject to a state of force majeure, as declared in February 2016 at the outset of the crisis.

“The recent joint action by police and military is the first tangible action on the ground by the security forces to remedy the situation on site, and it is imperative that we build on this success to find a lasting solution,” the statement concluded.