Akonta Mining Company Limited has denied any involvement in illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, in the Tano Nimri Forest Reserve.
This follows a revelation by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, and the subsequent revocation of the company’s license.
The Minister cited “overwhelming evidence” of illegal mining and criminal syndication as the basis for the decision.
However, the company, in a statement, described the Minister’s comments as “reckless and baseless,” calling the move “a clear breach of natural justice and a politically motivated act.”
“The Honourable Minister’s decision to publicly link Akonta Mining to illegal mining activities and to call for the revocation of our mining license is not only unjust and premature, but also a clear case of seeking to hang the dog and give it a bad name,” the statement read.
The company insisted that it holds valid leases and permits from the Minerals Commission and operates legally in Samreboi and Abokoase — not in the Tano Nimri Forest Reserve.
It emphasised that it has never mined in the forest reserve, and that its request for access to the area was denied by both the Minerals Commission and the Forestry Commission in 2022.
Akonta Mining also dismissed claims that it accepted GH¢350,000 from illegal miners, describing the allegations as “entirely false, defamatory, and mischievous,” and challenging anyone with evidence to come forward.
“We vehemently deny any knowledge or association with one Mr. Ayisi, who is falsely alleged to be linked to us,” the statement added.
Highlighting its commitment to environmental responsibility, the company cited ongoing reclamation efforts, including the planting of over 18,000 coconut trees, with plans to plant 32,000 more.
“Although this is estimated to cost the company significantly, we consider it imperative to ensure a responsible mining project that will protect both the community and the environment,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, Akonta Mining has pledged its willingness to cooperate with any legitimate investigation while urging the public and authorities to uphold the principles of fairness and justice.
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