The Ashanti Regional Organizer of Small-Scale Miners association says it does not understand why the military is burning excavators and equipment belonging to its members that are operating legally.
According to the Organiser Mr Kwaku Duah, the use of the military personnel to destroy and harass its members was not one of the measures agreed upon during the National Dialogue on mining.
Several pieces of mining equipment valued at millions have been burnt at the sites of their members as part of the fight against illegal mining.
He explained “We never discussed militarisation in the fight or using brutal force in the fight against illegal mining. We are expressing our displeasure about government’s U-turn on issues”.
He added “Small-Scale Miners are suffering and ‘cannot breathe’ over the hardship in the country. We can’t take care of our families, we’re suffering”.
The Association is therefore given the Government, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources Hon John Jinapor an ultimatum to fix the problems they have caused or face their wrath.
Source: Mybrytnewsroom.com/Kwabena Nyarko Abronoma
