Wacam calls for urgent action into police killing three in Newmont Ahafo South incident

Wacam, a leading civil society organization advocating for the rights of mining-affected communities, has called on the government to urgently address systemic insecurity and human rights violations in mining communities following a tragic incident at Newmont’s Ahafo South mines.

According to reports, on January 8, 2025, police officers deployed to protect Newmont’s concession allegedly shot and killed three individuals and injured others.

The victims, identified as residents of Acherensua in the Ahafo Region, were accused of engaging in illegal mining activities on Newmont’s concession.

In a press statement issued by Kwaku Afari, Technical Director of Wacam, the organization expressed deep concern over the use of force by security personnel, describing it as “disproportionate and needless."

Mr. Afari noted that the incident had sparked outrage among the youth, traditional authorities, and neighboring communities, who believe the actions of the security agencies were excessively harsh for an allegation of trespassing.

“While investigations into this tragic event are ongoing, it is imperative to address the underlying tensions and unresolved concerns surrounding Newmont’s operations in Ahafo,” Afari stated.

He highlighted a systemic pattern of insecurity and harassment in mining communities across Ghana, often involving state and private security personnel employed by multinational mining companies.

Mr. fari criticized the leniency with which state agencies have treated these violations, noting that they often result in the deaths and injuries of vulnerable individuals in mining communities.

Mr. Afari referenced a 2008 report by the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), which documented extensive human rights abuses in mining communities.

"The report revealed that large-scale mining companies frequently employ state security agencies to protect their concessions, often leading to harassment and inhumane treatment of alleged illegal miners and innocent community members,” he said.

Wacam reminded stakeholders of the constitutional provisions under Article 15(1) and (2) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, which guarantee the dignity and rights of all individuals, including protection from torture and inhumane treatment.

“Extrajudicial actions, such as the use of lethal force, contravene these rights and must not be tolerated,” Afari emphasized.

Wacam’s Demands

To prevent future occurrences, Wacam outlined the following urgent recommendations:

1. Independent Investigations: The government should investigate the systemic insecurity and human rights violations in mining communities, particularly those affected by Newmont’s activities in Ahafo North and South.

2. Police Accountability: The Inspector General of Police must investigate the conduct of police officers involved in the incident to ensure justice for the victims.

3. Security Protocol Revisions: Mining companies and state security agencies must review their protocols to respect the rights of mining-affected communities.

4. Corporate Accountability: Mining companies should be mandated to report measures they implement to protect the rights of individuals in host communities and take greater responsibility for their operations.

“Protecting the rights and lives of citizens is a constitutional mandate that cannot be compromised,” Afari concluded.

"The government must ensure that law enforcement agencies and mining companies operate within the confines of the law to prevent future human rights abuses.”

The incident has reignited debates about the role of multinational companies and state security in mining communities, with calls for reforms to prioritize human rights and community welfare.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith