Tensions are rising in parts of Nzema in the Western Region as residents of Salma, Akamko, Bamiako and nearby communities intensify protests against the operations of Adamus Resources Limited, accusing the firm of marginalising locals and favouring foreign nationals in mining activities.
The situation, which turned volatile over the weekend, has prompted renewed calls for urgent intervention by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, amid fears of further escalation.
At the centre of the unrest are claims of economic exclusion, with local youth alleging they have been systematically denied access to small-scale mining opportunities within their own communities.
Residents contend that while regulatory restrictions are strictly enforced against them, sections of the mining concession are allegedly being leased to foreign entities for alluvial mining. This, they say, has worsened unemployment and deepened frustration among the youth.
Community leaders have also criticised what they describe as the Ministry’s inaction, saying repeated appeals for redress have not yielded tangible results.
The grievances boiled over into confrontation when protesters stormed parts of the company’s concession. During the unrest, some security installations were set ablaze, and key roads were blocked with burning tyres, disrupting movement in the area.
A joint police and military task force was deployed to restore order. However, some residents have accused security personnel of using excessive force in dispersing demonstrators, further heightening tensions.
The unrest has been compounded by controversy surrounding the arrest and subsequent release of five foreign nationals accused of illegal mining.
Residents have described the development as a “double standard,” alleging that locals accused of similar offences are treated more harshly. Community members dispute claims that the individuals were providing support services, insisting they were directly engaged in illegal mining.
Amid the growing tensions, a formal petition has been submitted to President John Dramani Mahama through the Lands Ministry, calling for an independent investigation.
The petition is seeking clarity on the legality of leasing mining concessions to foreign entities and the circumstances surrounding the release of the suspects.
Community leaders warn that the situation remains volatile and could deteriorate further without swift government intervention. They caution that unresolved grievances over jobs, resource control and perceived injustice risk undermining security in the area.
Observers say the developments highlight broader concerns about balancing large-scale mining operations with local economic inclusion, a recurring challenge in Ghana’s resource-rich communities.
Source : www.kumasimail.com
