Barimah Etto Adomako III, Chief of Akyem Ettokrom in the Abuakwa North Municipality of Ghana’s Eastern Region, has raised concerns over what he describes as the forceful takeover of a mining concession at Fitcher, a rubber plantation community in the area, by some Chinese nationals allegedly accompanied by six fully armed military men.
According to the chief, the group entered the land, destroyed more than 50 rubber trees and dug a dam in preparation for mining operations.
He said that when he questioned them about their presence and activities on the land, they explained that they were taking over a concession previously leased to Narawa, a mining company, on the grounds that the company’s lease had expired.
Barimah Etto Adomako III further alleged that the individuals claimed the concession had been taken over by the brother of President John Dramani Mahama. However, he said they had not presented any documents to substantiate the claim.
The chief also expressed concern that neither the traditional authorities nor members of the affected community had been consulted before the alleged takeover.
He added that the situation had created fear among residents, citing sporadic gunshots reportedly heard in and around the community.
The chief has therefore appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to intervene urgently, noting that the President has consistently expressed opposition to illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
According to Barimah Etto Adomako III, illegal mining has dire consequences for the environment and the livelihoods and well-being of community members. He stressed the need for the President’s intervention to protect the land, safeguard residents and ensure that mining activities are conducted lawfully.
He further called for investigations into the alleged takeover and urged the relevant authorities to address the concerns of the traditional leadership and the affected community.
He made these allegations in an interview with Oyerepa TV/FM correspondent George Botha.
The allegations regarding the takeover, the involvement of military personnel and the claimed association with the President’s brother have not been independently verified.