The Minerals Commission has confirmed that Akonta Mining Limited engaged in illegal mining—popularly referred to as galamsey—within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve, contradicting the company’s repeated public denials.
Speaking on Accra-based Citi FM on Tuesday, April 22, the Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Isaac Andrew Tandoh, revealed that the Commission has gathered concrete evidence, including verified geolocation data and video footage, directly linking Akonta Mining to operations in protected forest zones.
“We now have enough intelligence, including videos, to go after the perpetrators,” Tandoh stated. “The Attorney General has been advised to act on the evidence and bring those responsible—especially those with influence—before the law.”
Akonta Mining has previously insisted that it operates strictly within legal boundaries and has not conducted any activity in forest reserves.
However, Mr. Tandoh dismissed the company’s denials, describing them as mere PR stunts intended to deflect accountability.
“Letters and press rebuttals don’t change facts. We’re not moved by public relations. This is only the beginning,” he stressed. “The Attorney General will handle the rest, and we’re committed to ensuring that all who are behind these illegal operations are punished to serve as a deterrent.”
The Commission’s revelations come just a day after the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, announced the revocation of Akonta Mining’s lease.
According to the Minister, the company unlawfully extended its operations into the Aboi and Tano Nimiri Forest Reserves in the Western North Region, despite only being licensed to operate in non-forest areas.
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