Talensi: Illegal miners fire gunshots at minerals commission officers during underground inspection

Some Minerals Commission Inspectors and mine managers from Earl International Group Ghana Gold Limited faced a traumatic experience. This occurred during an underground inspection in Gbane, Upper East Region. Illegal miners fired gunshots while the team was conducting their inspection.

Inspectors Charles Whirham and Sappor Teye Ibrahim went underground with company managers. They aimed to conduct regular inspections and investigations. However, they encountered a large group of illegal miners in the tunnels. These miners were taking gold ore blasted by the company.

The inspection team tried to warn the illegal miners to leave. Instead, the miners threatened them and demanded they vacate the area. Suddenly, a heavy gunshot rang out nearby, forcing the officers to flee for safety.

Earl's Mine Manager Firibu Salia described their experience. He said they went underground to check on smoke inhalation incidents involving illegal miners. They met various groups of these miners, including underage boys. When they tried to persuade them to leave, one miner challenged them instead.

Salia noted that illegal miners have taken over Shaft 4 completely. He stated that it feels like they own the place when you go underground.

In another incident, 42 illegal miners were rescued after being trapped in smoke. A combined team of rescuers and private security personnel from Earl conducted the rescue operation. The illegal miners had become trapped after attempting to steal gold ore shortly after a blast.

Assistant Public Relations Officer Albert Azongo confirmed this incident. He explained that timely intervention prevented potential fatalities among those trapped underground.

This situation is what prompted Minerals Commission Officers to investigate further during their routine inspections. Unfortunately, they encountered gunfire instead of addressing safety concerns about illegal mining activities in the area.