The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has directed the immediate revocation of all mining licenses held by Akonta Mining Company Limited.
This follows serious allegations of illegal mining activities (galamsey) and regulatory breaches by the mining company.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, April 21, the Minister disclosed that Akonta Mining has been implicated in a series of unlawful activities, including engaging in galamsey operations and violating established mining regulations.
In a damning revelation, Mr Buah stated that the company has also been illegally selling concessions within the Aboi Forest to unauthorised miners for up to GH₵300,000, and in some cases, in exchange for gold royalties.
“This company has not only trespassed into protected reserves but has become a criminal syndicate, selling access of the Aboi Forest Reserve to illegal miners for a staggering GH₵300,000 per concession.
“Worse, these illegal miners operate under Akonta’s protection, devastating the River Tano and surrounding forests with impunity,” Mr Buah said.
He continued, “As part of the agreement between Akonta Mining and the illegal miners, weekly royalties of 250 grams of gold are to be paid to the company, lining the pockets of Akonta’s collaborators.”
The Minister stated that he has directed the immediate revocation of all mining licences issued to Akonta Mining Company.
“In light of the overwhelming evidence, I have authorised the Minerals Commission to take steps to revoke the lease of Akonta Mining Co. Ltd with immediate effect.”
“I have directed that forestry officials connected to these illegalities be immediately interdicted pending further investigations and prosecution. The security agencies have been notified to investigate security officers who have had dealings with Akonta Mining in this particular Forest Reserve.”
The Lands Minister added that the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dominic Ayine, has also been briefed and has taken over the investigations for further action.
He noted that Akonta Mining does not have a lease to mine in the Tano Nimiri Forest reserve, and their mining activities in the forest are illegal and criminal.
“This is a warning to all large-scale mining concession holders hiding behind legal leases to fund the destruction of our forests and river bodies. We know some of your schemes – We are coming after you.”
Source: Myjoyonline.com
