Asanko Gold Ghana Limited, a multi-deposit mining complex with four major open-pit operations at Manso Abore, Miradani North, Nkran and Esaase, has denied allegations that it has deployed military personnel to intimidate residents of MansoTontokrom.
Responding to claims made by a group of residents over the weekend at a press conference, the company clarified that the presence of military personnel in the area is not at its behest, but rather part of a national security initiative spearheaded by the Ghana Armed Forces in partnership with the Ghana Chamber of Mines.
“The recent presence of military personnel in and around our concession is part of a state-mandated security initiative coordinated through the Ghana Chamber of Mines,” the company said in a statement.
“This national programme is designed to provide lawful protection to licensed mining companies across the country from the increasing threat posed by illegal mining (galamsey) operations.”
The statement highlighted that illegal mining not only poses grave threats to human life and the environment but also leads to significant revenue losses for the state, deters legitimate investment and creates hazardous conditions for both community members and mine workers.
Asanko Gold emphasised that the security deployment is a standardised measure by the government, executed through the appropriate agencies, to protect all major legal mining concessions nationwide.
Accordingly, the company urged the public and stakeholders to disregard what it described as “inaccurate claims” made at the press conference, noting that such statements misrepresent the facts and threaten to erode the goodwill and cooperation built over the years between the company and its host communities.
“In Asanko Gold’s specific case, the deployment was sanctioned by the Ghana Armed Forces with coordination and support from the Chamber of Mines.
“It is essential to emphasize that this intervention is not punitive in nature, nor is it intended to intimidate or harass any individuals,” the statement clarified.
“On the contrary, its primary goal is to ensure safety, legal compliance, and a conducive environment for sustainable mining.”
The company further disclosed that the deployment followed stakeholder engagements involving local leaders and authorities.
These discussions were chaired by the District Security Councils (DISECs) of the Amansie West and Amansie South Districts.
“During these sessions, the initiative was framed as a collaborative effort to stabilize mining activities and encourage responsible behavior,” it noted.
“Stakeholders, including community leaders and local authorities, were encouraged to support the process and assist in promoting peaceful self-evacuation from unauthorised mining sites.”
According to the company, the approach has already yielded positive results, with some illegal miners voluntarily withdrawing from operational areas.
“We are pleased to report that many illegal miners have voluntarily cooperated in other areas where similar exercises have taken place, and we are hopeful that the same level of understanding and collaboration will be realised within the Tontokrom concession area.”
Asanko Gold reaffirmed its commitment to building mutually respectful and beneficial relationships with all host communities, including Tontokrom. The company emphasised that its community development model places strong emphasis on local participation and shared progress.
“We believe that open communication and genuine partnership are key to achieving lasting development outcomes. Asanko Gold will continue to engage proactively with traditional authorities, youth groups, civil society organisations, and local leadership to promote responsible mining and enhance community wellbeing”, the statement said.
