The National Concerned Small Scale Miners Association, Ghana, has called for the immediate interdiction of a military officer captured in a widely circulated video allegedly shooting a man during an anti-illegal mining operation at Kyebi Zongo.
In a press statement signed by its President, Michael Kwadwo Peprah, the Association said while it firmly condemns illegal mining, it is equally concerned about what it describes as the apparent unnecessary use of lethal force by the soldier involved.
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According to the Association, the video does not appear to show that the military officer was under any immediate threat that would have justified the discharge of his firearm. It noted that the individual who was shot appeared to be unarmed and did not pose an imminent danger to the security personnel at the scene.
The statement further observed that several armed military officers were present during the confrontation, suggesting that the situation was under control. It also claimed that the victim appeared to be attempting to calm the agitated crowd and restrain the angry illegal miners rather than inciting violence.
“Based on what is visible in the footage, the use of lethal force appears disproportionate and unwarranted,” the Association stated, adding that it would accept the findings of any official investigation should evidence emerge showing otherwise.
The Association has therefore called on the Ghana Armed Forces and other relevant state authorities to immediately interdict the soldier involved pending a full, impartial, and transparent investigation into the incident. It argued that such a measure would help maintain public confidence in the investigative process and demonstrate accountability.
While reiterating its opposition to illegal mining, the Association emphasized that the fight against galamsey must be conducted within the confines of the law and with full respect for human rights. It said security personnel must exercise professionalism and proportionality in the use of force during law enforcement operations.
The Association also referenced previous anti-galamsey operations in which civilians reportedly lost their lives, including the fatal shooting of a young man in Obuasi. It noted that, according to accounts from the deceased’s family and community members, the victim was unarmed and was reportedly passing through the area when he was shot.
According to the statement, such incidents underscore the need for thorough investigations into allegations involving the use of deadly force by security personnel.
The National Concerned Small Scale Miners Association concluded by reaffirming its support for lawful efforts to combat illegal mining while stressing that protecting human life and ensuring due process must remain central to law enforcement operations.
The Association also expressed sympathy to the victim and his family and appealed to the public to remain calm while the appropriate authorities conduct an independent investigation into the shooting.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
