Residents of Darkokrom in the Atiwa East District of the Eastern Region are demanding justice following the alleged killing of a 36-year-old man and the shooting of a 76-year-old resident during a violent confrontation linked to illegal mining activities in the community.
The deceased, identified as Jaba Edward, popularly known Atteh, was allegedly beaten to death, while Samuel Nartey, 76, sustained gunshot wounds and is currently receiving treatment after armed men reportedly attacked residents.
According to the community, the assailants were allegedly deployed by an illegal miner identified only as Hero, following a dispute over his mining operations.
Addressing the media, spokesperson for the community, Peter Doku, said the illegal miner had entered Darkokrom to conduct mining activities in water bodies and on farms destroying crops and cocoa trees despite strong opposition from residents.
He explained that although the miner later abandoned the site, he allegedly left behind uncovered mining pits without reclaiming the degraded land, posing a serious danger to residents and the environment.
Mr. Doku said community members subsequently prevented the miner from removing his excavator and other mining equipment, insisting that he first restore the damaged lands.
He alleged that the miner later returned to the community with armed men on motorbikes, who reportedly launched an attack on residents and fired indiscriminately.
During the incident, Jaba Edward Atteh was allegedly assaulted and killed, while Samuel Nartey was shot and seriously injured.
Residents say they reported the attack to the Anyinam Police, but no arrests have been made.
The community is therefore appealing to the Inspector-General of Police to intervene and ensure that all those responsible for the attack are identified, arrested, and prosecuted.
They also called on the government to intensify efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities, which they say continue to threaten lives, farmlands, and water bodies across the district.
According to the beareaved family,the twin brother of the deceased Jaba Edward Atteh has suffered serious traumatic depression hence receiving treatement.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
