Dr Frank Amoakohene: Sad Scenes in Manso Mpatuam as AR Minister Visits Late Assembly Man's Family
- Two people, including an Assembly member, have died in Manso Mpatuam, in the Amansie West district
- The fatalities occurred during violent clashes with military officers protecting a mining concession belonging to Asanko Gold
- The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, with an entourage, visited the bereaved family to console them
Ghana’s top stories, now easier to find. Discover our new search feature!
Dr Frank Amoakohene, the Ashanti Regional Minister, has commiserated with the late victims of the recent clash in Manso Mpatuam, in the Amansie West district.
Source: TikTok
The clash, which broke out on Monday and Tuesday, September 8 and 9, claimed the lives of two individuals.
Reports indicate the clashes began after soldiers confronted residents allegedly attempting to access a mining concession belonging to Asanko Gold.
Sekyi Michael, the Assembly Member for Mpatuam West, confirmed that one person died during the initial clash on Monday.
On the way to the mortuary, some angry youth reportedly dumped the body at the military base in protest, leading to another confrontation that resulted in the death of a second person, who was later identified as an Assembly Member.
A huge upheaval has erupted in the town after the deaths. The residents, wielding placards and wearing red uniforms, are demanding that the military officers leave the town.
It was an emotional scene as the Ashanti Regional Minister visited the family members of the late victims.
Relatives cried profusely, mourning the tragedy that had befallen the town.
Dr Frank Amoakohene assured the residents of the government's ongoing efforts to investigate the killings and de-escalate tension in the area.
Videos of Dr Frank Amoakohene in Mpatuam below.
Dr Frank Amoakohene speaks after Mpatuam visit
Sharing his moments at Mpatuam, Dr Frank Amoakohene talked about plans to de-escalate tension after the Asanko Gold clash.
He urged the public to remain calm and hinted at a mediation team which would bring closure to the issue.
"Today, I visited the Amansie West District to engage the chiefs and people following the unfortunate shooting incident that claimed the life of Mr. Sampson Duncan, Assembly Member for Aboaso Tetekaaso. On behalf of H.E. the President, I assured the community of a full and impartial investigation into the matter and appealed to the youth to remain calm to prevent any further violence."
"We also visited Asanko Mines to assess the extent of damage, listen to their side of the story, and reaffirm the Government’s commitment to protecting both lives and investments in the area."
"A mediation team will be established to ensure a smooth and lasting resolution of the situation. Our collective priority is peace, justice, and stability for all."
Chairman of small-scale miners association arrested
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that the Small Scale Miners Association chairman had been arrested by galamsey task force.
Kojo Peprah was accused of interfering with the arrest of illegal miners working in the Desiri Forest Reserve in the Ashanti Region.
Authorities stated that the operation during which he was nabbed was part of efforts to clamp down on illegal mining in Ghana.
Source: YEN.com.gh
