Three Chinese Nationals Arrested Over Deadly Mining Incident

Tension is rising in Gwira Ampansie in the Nzema East Municipality of the Western Region after the brother of the town’s chief was allegedly shot and killed during a confrontation linked to illegal mining activities.

Police have arrested six suspects, including three Chinese nationals, in connection with the incident.

The deceased, identified as Mensah Ango, was reportedly the brother of the Chief of Gwira Ampansie, Nana Kojo Mensah. He was said to be a father of 11 with three wives.

According to sources in the community, the shooting happened after the chief sent a delegation, including linguists and the deceased, to invite officials of a mining company identified as PRP to the palace over concerns surrounding its operations.

Residents claim the company has been carrying out illegal mining activities in the area without the required permits and documentation.

The situation reportedly turned violent when armed men providing security at the mining site allegedly opened fire on the delegation upon seeing them approach. Mensah Ango was shot and killed while others escaped.

The incident has sparked outrage among residents, with some angry youth threatening retaliation against the mining company and its equipment.

Community members also alleged that the armed men guarding the mining site have previously attacked residents who opposed the mining activities. Some residents claimed that at least three other people had been killed in earlier incidents connected to the same dispute.

Speaking in an interview, Nana Kojo Mensah accused authorities of failing to act despite repeated complaints about the activities of the mining company and the conduct of the armed men.

He further alleged that some state officials may be protecting the miners, making it difficult for the community to seek justice.

The chief has appealed to the government, President John Mahama, and the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) to intervene and remove the mining company from the community.

There are also claims that the mining site is linked to a Canadian national identified only as Simon, who residents allege has connections with influential officials.

Responding to the development, the Municipal Chief Executive for Nzema East, Herbert Kuah Dickson, confirmed the arrest of six suspects, including three Chinese nationals.

He assured residents that the Assembly and security agencies are working to restore calm and maintain law and order as investigations continue.