One military officer with the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has been confirmed dead, while four others are in critical condition after their vehicle was involved in a fatal accident late Wednesday in the Obuasi Municipality.
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, in a statement posted on his official Facebook page, described the incident as a “tragic loss” and extended condolences to the bereaved family. He said the death was “a loss to the region” and assured the family of the government’s support during this difficult period.
According to the Minister, three injured officers initially reported in his statement were receiving “the best possible medical attention,” with regional authorities coordinating closely with relevant agencies.
Subsequent updates from security sources, however, confirmed that four officers were critically injured and had been transferred from the Obuasi Government Hospital to the Anglogold Obuasi Hospital for advanced treatment.
Accident Occurred After Anti-Illegal Mining Operation
The accident happened as the NAIMOS team was returning from an operation at a mining concession in Anyankyerim, which has recently been taken over by illegal miners.
Eyewitnesses reported that the vehicle somersaulted along the stretch between the Anyankyerim community and the Airport Road.
The concession, owned by Mining and Construction Services Limited, has become a flashpoint in the ongoing anti-galamsey fight following claims by some miners that the site was allocated to them by the previous NDC administration.
Investigations by local authorities suggest the illegal miners may be receiving backing from politically influential individuals.
One such figure, the NDC Vice Chairman for the Obuasi West Constituency, Alhaji Zamba, has publicly claimed ownership of the concession in a video circulating on social media.
Authorities Launch Investigations
The Assembly Member for the Aketechieso–Amamuom–Anakyirem Electoral Area, Daniel Krobea Asante, has provided preliminary information on the circumstances surrounding the crash. Meanwhile, Dr. Amoakohene says a full investigation is underway to determine what caused the accident and to guide measures to prevent future occurrences.
“The safety and well-being of all personnel engaged in national assignments remain a priority,” the Minister said, adding that the region stands in solidarity with the affected officers, their families and the entire NAIMOS Task Force.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
