3 friends granted GH¢100K bail each over illegal mining

Three friends have been granted bail of GH¢100,000. They must provide two sureties each. The Nkawie circuit court issued the bail in Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality. They are accused of illegal mining at Atwima-Tetrem.

The accused are Fatawu Seidu, 35, a mechanic; Solomon Osei, 40, a barber; and Simon Awindawu, 19, unemployed. All three pleaded not guilty. They will return to court on May 5 this year.

Police Detective Chief Inspector Ntim Boadu is prosecuting the case. He stated that the complainants were police officers. On April 8 at about 9:20 am, police received a tip-off about illegal mining activities.

The police found the accused prospecting for gold in Asanko Gold Mining Company's concession at Tetrem-Aboabo. When they saw the police, they hid their gold detector machine and fled.

The police arrested them shortly after. In their statements, Fatawu and Awindawu admitted to the offense. However, Osei denied involvement and claimed he was just watching his friends work.

After further investigations, all three were charged and brought before the court.