Birim Central Municipal Chief Executive, Solomon Kusi Brako, has denied allegations of extorting GHC 15,000 from miners.
The claims were made by Akyem Oda MP, Alexander Kwasi, Acquah and other individual miners.
However, according to the MCE, the allegations are calculated and deliberate strategy to discourage his commitment to fighting illegal mining in the area.
At a Press conference, the MCE categorically stated that, recent allegations of extortion is completely false and micheviously targeted at tarnishing his image.
He explained that the Assembly recently carried out an exercise ensuring that legitimate mining companies comply with all regulations including securing the necessary Business operating permits with the Assembly to among other things ensure accountability.
He said, as part of the compliance exercise, a fine was imposed on small-Scale Miners operating under Great Consolidated Diamonds Ghana Limited (GCDGL) from the Birim Central Municipal Assembly, but with permit.
The MCE provided receipts of the fines and evidence that the monies were paid into the Assembly’s coffers.
The MCE reiterated his administration’s commitment to responsible mining practices and adherence to the law.
He urged the public to verify facts before making accusations, highlighting the importance of accuracy and fairness in public discourse.
Mr. Kusi recounted the numerous times he and the Municipal Security Council have cracked down on illegal mining (galamsey) along the Birim River in Akyem Oda, seizing excavators, control boards, burning Changfan machines, and other mining equipment.
He said he further engaged the NAIMOS taskforce for an extensive operation.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
