The Minerals Commission has defended the government’s decision to revoke the mining leases of Adamus Resources Limited, citing what it describes as “systematic and flagrant violation” of Ghana’s mining laws, while confirming that criminal aspects of the case have been referred to the Attorney General for action.
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, earlier announced the revocation of the company’s Akango, Salman and Nkroful mining leases following alleged illegal mining activities.
Addressing the media, the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Isaac Andrews Tandoh, said investigations conducted by the Inspectorate Division uncovered multiple breaches supported by inspection reports and evidence.
He stated that the company “unlawfully assigned a portion of its mineral rights to third parties without prior ministerial consent,” in breach of Section 14 of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703).
He further disclosed that mining activities were carried out without approved operating plans or permits from the Chief Inspector of Mines, adding that “active mining operations were observed… using excavators and bulldozers without approved mining operating plans.”
The Commission also alleged that foreign nationals were involved in illegal mining activities on the concessions, describing the operations as environmentally destructive and inconsistent with industry standards.
Tandoh stressed that while the law allows notice periods for breaches, “immediate revocation is justified where the public interest and environmental protection demand urgent action or where the illegalities are flagrant and deliberate.”
He added that the Commission has also referred the criminal dimension of the case to the Attorney General for possible prosecution of the company and its directors under the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 995).
The Minerals Commission maintained that the decision was lawful and evidence-based, insisting it “was neither arbitrary nor politically motivated,” but aimed at protecting Ghana’s natural resources and ensuring compliance with mining regulations.
It further warned that companies found to be abusing mineral rights will face the full rigours of the law, adding that Ghana remains committed to responsible mining and regulatory enforcement.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
