The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has vowed to take firm action against those involved in the recent clash between Manso Tontokrom residents in the Ashanti region and private security personnel from Asanko Gold Mines Limited.
In a statement dated Monday, March 4, the Ministry reiterated its commitment to ensuring that individuals found culpable will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.
An extensive investigation into the incident has been launched by the Ministry in collaboration with relevant security agencies.
While condemning the unfortunate occurrence, the Ministry has appealed for calm from the public as investigations continue to unfold.
"The Ministry is currently investigating the matter in collaboration with the appropriate security authorities."
"The public is hereby assured that, the perpetrators of such act will be dealt with in accordance with the laws of the Republic if found culpable," the statement said.
An altercation between residents of Manso Tontokrom and Asanko Gold Mine security personnel on Saturday, March 2, 2024, led to the death of three people. Four people have so far been arrested following the clash.
Read below the statement by the Ministry
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has received disturbing reports of a clash between some residents of Manso Tontokrom and Security Personnel of Asanko Gold Mine Limited, all in the Amansie South District in the Ashanti Region, which resulted in three (3) deaths.
The Ministry is currently investigating the matter in collaboration with the appropriate security authorities.
The public is hereby assured that, the perpetrators of such act will be dealt with in accordance with the laws of the Republic if found culpable.
However, calm has currently been restored at the mine site and in the community.
We, therefore, commend the DISEC for their continuous support in ensuring peace within the confines of Tontokrom.
The Ministry urges all the stakeholders in and around Tontokrom to remain calm as we look comprehensively into the matter.
Moreover, cooperation is needed at this stage, by all and sundry to mitigate further occurrences of such heinous act.