The Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, George Mireku Duker, has hinted government may consider providing security for legally recognised mining companies when the need arises.
His comments fall on the back of a recent destruction by some illegal miners at the Benso concession of Golden Star Wassa Limited in the Western Region.
Illegal small-scale miners, on March 16, 2023, besieged the Benso concession of Golden Star Wassa Limited and set ablaze some properties owned by the mining company after a team of security men and the police warded them off a concession they had invaded to cart away mine dust to prospect for gold.
The altercation that ensued left some illegal miners with various degrees of injuries.
The miners in retaliation pursued employees within the precinct of the Benso mine and torched 12 vehicles, including excavators, ambulances and pick-ups.
While on a visit to the facility by the Minerals Commission, the Deputy Minister said while government may consider providing security for mining companies, the companies should develop better relationship with their host communities to avoid the occurrence of such acts.
On his part the Group Corporate Affairs Manager of Golden Star Wassa Mine, Mr Gerard Boakye noted they will take a cue from the concerns raised by the minister.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/Kobina Amuah
