Amansie South NDC, mining associations call for NAIMOS withdrawal following deaths of seven residents at Manso Domi Keniago

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Amansie South Constituency, together with representatives of small-scale miners and progressive mining associations, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to withdraw the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) from the Manso enclave following the killing of seven residents of Manso Domi Keniago.

The incident, which also left several other residents critically injured, has sparked concerns among political and mining stakeholders, who are demanding an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Addressing the media, representatives of the Amansie South NDC maintained that NAIMOS operations should be withdrawn from the area to prevent further tensions and restore calm among residents.

Representatives of small-scale miners and progressive mining associations also threw their weight behind the call, expressing concerns about the conduct of some NAIMOS personnel during their operations.

The groups alleged that some personnel of the anti-illegal mining task force have been using their operations as an avenue to extort money from miners, irrespective of whether their mining activities are legal or illegal.

They argued that such alleged practices undermine the fight against illegal mining and create resentment among mining communities.

Beyond the call for the withdrawal of NAIMOS from the Manso area, all the groups jointly demanded an independent and impartial investigation into the incident to establish the circumstances that led to the deaths of the seven residents.

They further called for justice for the deceased and their bereaved families, insisting that anyone found culpable must be held accountable in accordance with the law.

The groups stressed that the fight against illegal mining must not come at the expense of human lives and urged the government to ensure that all security operations are conducted within the confines of the law, with respect for human rights and the protection of lives and property.

Source: ghanawatchonline.com/Sarkodie Samuel