Sand Winners Association condemns Asiyaw shooting, demands tougher punishment for illegal operators

The National Association of Sand, Stone Workers, and Tipper Users (NASSWOTU) has condemned a recent shooting in Asiyaw. This incident occurred in the Eastern Region and resulted from illegal sand-winning activities.

On Monday, April 29, 2025, five people were killed. The violence erupted between two rival groups over land ownership. It is believed that unauthorized sand-winning operations triggered this altercation.

Four suspects have been arrested and taken to court. They are currently remanded into custody.

NASSWOTU described the situation as unfortunate. They noted that those involved were not recognized members of the association and operated illegally.

During a congress in Kasoa, NASSWOTU National Chairman Samuel Amoah made an appeal. He urged the government to send military personnel to help combat illegal sand winning.

Amoah stressed the need for stricter enforcement measures. These measures aim to prevent further violence and environmental damage linked to unregulated activities.

Some association members also voiced concerns about licensing delays. They called on the government to expedite acquiring operational documents like mining leases and permits from relevant agencies. Delays often push individuals toward illegal operations.