Seven Illegal Miners Killed in Clash with Soldiers at AngloGold Ashanti Mines

Jan 19, 2025 - 20:53

Obuasi, Ghana - 19 Jan, 2025 - A violent confrontation between illegal miners and soldiers at the AngloGold Ashanti Mines in Obuasi has resulted in the deaths of seven miners.

According to the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), the incident occurred on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at approximately 11:00 PM, when a group of about 60 illegal miners attempted to breach the mine's security fence.

The miners, who were armed with locally manufactured rifles, pump-action guns, and other tools, opened fire on the soldiers, prompting them to return fire in self-defense.

One soldier was injured in the crossfire, but has since received treatment. Six pump-action BB cartridges were retrieved from the scene.

The GAF in a statement warned that military personnel on authorized duty are entitled to use lethal force when necessary to protect lives and property.

“The troops returned fire in self-defence. The shootout led to the death of seven illegal miners and one seriously injured. The remaining illegal miners bolted away. A soldier who was also hit by pellets from a pump action gun and got injured has been treated. Six pump action BB cartridges were retrieved.

“The Ghana Armed Forces(GAF) wishes to reiterate its caution to all and sundry that military personnel on authorised duty have the right to defend themselves, innocent civilians, and property, including the use of lethal force, if necessary to preserve life. GAF wishes to urge all illegal miners to stay away from mining concessions and also desist from engaging troops in shootouts since the consequences of such actions could be fatal,” portions of the GAF statement read.

Read the full statement from GAF below