Kibi Goldfields Limited has denied military shootings at Akyem Saamang in Fanteakwa South District following violent clashes with some youth
The community claim at least three persons including a mother of seven sustained injuries following a violent confrontation between youth in Akyem Saamang and alleged military personnel guarding Kibi Goldfields Mining Company in the Eastern Region.
The incident occurred on Saturday, July 27, 2025, when tensions flared over the company’s alleged diversion and illegal mining of River Akusu, a key water source for the community.
The mining company however says no civilian was shot.
The Chief of Akyem Saamang, Barima Dr. Ofori Nyarko Tetepo, confirmed that he had earlier requested the company to dredge the river but later issued a directive for the activity to stop after receiving reports that the company was mining imthe river beds.
The company stated it obtained all relevant permits, including a water diversion license from the Water Resources Commission to dredge .
It began operations along the designated stretch in February 2025, with full adherence to legal and environmental regulations.
However, during the operations, the security team on site became overwhelmed by the activities of illegal miners (galamseyers) invading the concession” statement said.
They company averred that tensions reached a boiling point on August 2, when irate youth clashed with the company’s security personnel.
The company says one of its guards was seriously injured, and an excavator and truck were destroyed.
While transporting the injured officer to a hospital in Saamang, some youth reportedly followed the team, attempting to attack again. When they failed, they allegedly vandalized a KGL vehicle at the clinic.
“Our military personnel on site escorted the KGL team to convey the damaged vehicle from the hospital to our site. We wish to categorically state that no civilian was shot during this process, contrary to circulating rumors. Two individuals involved in the attack were arrested and handed over to the Kyebi Divisional Police Command for further investigation”.
KGL company said the military personnel on-site intervened to restore calm and escort the team safely back to its concession.
The statement added that ” unfortunately, on August 2, 2025, a disturbing incident occurred when a group of youths from Saamang violently attacked our mining team. One of our security personnel was seriously injured, and an excavator and truck were destroyed. The injured guard was rushed to a nearby hospital in Saamang, but a group of youths attempted to follow and cause further harm to the individual, when they failed in their attempt, they resorted to damaging our vehicle at the hospital site”.
The military intervened to bring the situation under control.
Beyond the Akusu stream project, KGL has continued to foster a strong and peaceful relationship with the Saamang community.
The company has been actively engaged in various corporate social responsibility initiatives to improve livelihood for residents.
” KGL remains dedicated to working hand in hand with the community to support its social, economic, and environmental development”
Samuel Tei Agyemang, Mine Manager, Kibi Goldfields, KGL reiterated that the operations in Saamang are fully legal, conducted with the consent of relevant authorities and in accordance with all Ghanaian mining laws.
“We remain committed to supporting the development of the Saamang community through responsible practices, community engagement, and cooperation with traditional leaders and state institutions. We call for calm and urge all stakeholders to allow the law to take its course. KGL will continue to work transparently and respectfully with the people of Saamang for the mutual benefit of all”. He said.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
