Nine Dead in Military Clash at AngloGold Ashanti’s Obuasi Gold Mine

A violent clash at AngloGold Ashanti’s Obuasi gold mine left nine dead and 14 injured. The Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners (GNASSM) reported that military personnel opened fire on unarmed miners. Local chairman Kofi Adams claimed the victims had no weapons during the incident.

The confrontation highlights ongoing tensions at Obuasi, one of Ghana’s largest gold mines. Illegal miners often enter restricted areas, leading to security disputes.

Conflicting Accounts of the Incident

The military and GNASSM have shared different versions of events. The army claims about 60 illegal miners breached the Obuasi gold mine security fence and fired at soldiers. Seven miners reportedly died in the shootout.

GNASSM disputes this account. They argue that the miners were unarmed and were shot without provocation. Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama has ordered an investigation. The government also directed AngloGold Ashanti to pay medical bills for the injured and burial costs for the dead.

Obuasi Gold Mine: A Key Mining Asset

The Obuasi gold mine, located in Ghana’s Ashanti Region, has operated since 1897. It remains one of the country’s most important mining sites. Production paused in 2014, but redevelopment efforts have resumed. The mine includes a 2.4 million tonnes per annum processing plant.

Despite the tragedy, mining operations continue. The government’s investigation may determine future security policies at the site.