The National Concerned Small-Scale Miners Association, Ghana, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to order an independent investigation into the killing of three people at Manso Keniago in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region.
The Association, in a press statement signed by its President, Michael Kwadwo Peprah, condemned the incident and described the loss of lives as disturbing, while extending condolences to the bereaved families and residents of the community.
It is calling for an independent investigative committee to examine the circumstances surrounding the deaths, particularly allegations involving members of the special forces operating under the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS). https://kumasimail.com/three-killed-several-injured-in-alleged-shooting-involving-naimos-operatives-at-manso-kaniago/
According to the Association, the investigation should establish the facts surrounding the incident and ensure that any officer found to have acted unlawfully is held accountable under the laws of Ghana.
The Association also argued that the incident reportedly occurred within the Manso Keniago community and not at a designated mining site. It maintained that the mere ownership or possession of an excavator does not, in itself, constitute a criminal offence, stressing that law enforcement operations must comply with the law and respect citizens’ fundamental rights.
While expressing support for the government’s efforts to combat illegal mining and protect the environment, the Association cautioned against actions by individuals within the NAIMOS task force that could undermine the credibility of the operation.
It further criticised the use of what it described as a shoot-to-kill approach in tackling illegal mining, arguing that similar hard-line measures adopted by previous governments had failed to provide a lasting solution to the problem.
The Association warned that excessive use of force could escalate tensions, undermine public confidence in state institutions and lead to further loss of lives.
Among its demands, the Association called for an immediate presidential directive for an independent investigation, accountability for any officers found culpable, and a comprehensive review of NAIMOS operational procedures and rules of engagement.
It also urged the government to ensure that all anti-illegal mining operations respect the constitutional rights, dignity and lives of citizens.
The Association cautioned that failure to address the incident could generate public resentment against the government, urging President Mahama to act swiftly to prevent the situation from escalating.
It reiterated its commitment to supporting responsible mining and the fight against illegal mining, but insisted that environmental protection and law enforcement must not come at the expense of human life and the rule of law.
“Justice must be served, and the people of Manso Keniago deserve answers,” the statement concluded.
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Source: www.kumasimail.com
