Lands minister faults Akonta Mining in illegal mining syndicate

Akonta Mining does not have a lease to mine in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. Their activities there are illegal, according to Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah at a press briefing in Accra.

He warned that the Mahama government will hold the company accountable. This serves as a warning to other large-scale mining concession holders. They should not hide behind legal leases while destroying forests and rivers.

Investigations showed that Akonta Mining has a legal lease off-reserve. However, they were found actively mining within forest reserves, including Samreboi in Western North region.

Mr. Buah accused the company of trespassing into protected areas. He claimed it operates a “criminal syndicate,” charging GH₵ 300,000 per concession to illegal miners in Aboi Forest Reserve.

The illegal miners under Akonta's protection are damaging River Tano and nearby forest areas. This includes compartments 49 and 121 of the Tano Nimiri reserve.

Some illegal miners reportedly paid Akonta Mining 250 grams of gold weekly. There are allegations of collusion between the company and forestry officers, along with security personnel.

These officials allegedly received cuts of fees for providing protection and warnings about raids. Mr. Buah expressed concern over this collusion among forestry officers and security personnel.

Several Forestry Commission officials have been suspended pending investigations and possible prosecution. The Ghana Police Service and Forestry Commission conducted a 12-hour operation targeting six sites linked to Akonta Mining.

Authorities seized around 30 excavators, five of which were impounded. They also confiscated two pump-action shotguns, one single-barrel gun, mining equipment, two Toyota Hilux pickups, one Toyota RAV4, and four motorbikes.

Mr. Buah addressed youth involved in illegal mining, urging them to seek better alternatives. He warned that those who continue will face severe consequences from the state.

The Ministry stated that these arrests and license revocations are part of a broader crackdown on illegal mining threatening Ghana’s forests and water bodies.

In response, Andy Appiah Kubi spoke on behalf of Akonta Mining via telephone interview. He claimed the company has not sent anyone to any mining areas.

He stated that anyone present there is fraudulent; they have not authorized access for mining in forestry lands. Kubi maintained that Akonta Mining Company Limited is legitimately licensed but has suspended its operations currently.

He added that they have not been invited by any investigative committee regarding forestry land issues. Kubi argued that without an opportunity to present their position, the Minister is acting beyond his authority.