Asanko Gold Ghana Ltd. has strongly denied claims that it deployed military personnel to harass and intimidate residents of Tontokrom in the Amansie South District.
The allegations were made during a press conference held by some members of the Tontokrom community on Saturday, July 26, 2025. According to the residents, the presence of armed soldiers in the area had heightened tensions and created fear among locals.
However, in a press statement issued on Monday, July 28, the company dismissed the accusations as “inaccurate and misleading,” insisting that the military presence in the area was part of a nationwide security operation sanctioned by the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and coordinated through the Ghana Chamber of Mines.
The statement, signed by Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Asanko Gold, Charles Amoah, clarified that the deployment was part of a government-backed initiative to protect legal mining concessions from the activities of illegal miners, commonly referred to as galamsey.
“Illegal mining not only threatens lives and the environment, but also reduces state revenue and undermines lawful operations. The military deployment is therefore not punitive or targeted, but a lawful measure aimed at safeguarding lives and property,” the statement read.
According to the company, extensive stakeholder engagements were held prior to the security deployment. The District Security Councils (DISEC) of Amansie West and Amansie South chaired discussions involving local leaders and community representatives. The initiative was explained as a collaborative effort to encourage peace and promote voluntary withdrawal from unauthorised mining areas.
Asanko Gold expressed optimism that, as in other areas where similar operations had been conducted, illegal miners in Tontokrom would voluntarily cooperate.
The company also reaffirmed its commitment to community engagement and development, emphasising that it remains open to dialogue with all stakeholders, including traditional authorities, youth groups, and civil society.
“Asanko Gold remains committed to nurturing a mutually respectful relationship with the people of Tontokrom. We urge the public to disregard the false claims and work with us to ensure responsible and sustainable mining,” the release concluded.
Meanwhile, tensions remain in parts of the Amansie South District, where disputes over mining rights and operations have occasionally sparked unrest. Local authorities have yet to issue a separate statement on the latest developments.
By David Afum, Tontokrom