Ghana Orders Illegal Miners to Leave Global Ore Concessions

Illegal miners ordered to vacate Global Ore concessions

The Attorney-General's Office has warned illegal miners to vacate Global Ore concessions in Tarkwa, Ghana.

A State Attorney, Kingsley Nana Agyarkum, issued the warning at a meeting with chiefs, community miners, and officials of Global Ore last Friday. The meeting was held at the Western Central Police Command in Tarkwa.

Mining without a licence issued by the Minerals Commission constitutes an offence punishable by a fine of not less than 10,000 penalty units or a prison term of between 15 and 25 years, Agyarkum stated. He cautioned community miners against acts of vigilantism, intimidation, and assault, saying, "If anyone has a grievance, the appropriate remedy is to seek redress through lawful means, not violence."

Photo: ghanaiantimes.com.gh

The Western Regional Head of the Minerals Commission, Francis Annobil, explained that Global Ore had been granted a 17-year mining lease, effective December 13, 2024. Although two community mining groups at Bompieso were granted five-year licences in March 2024, all other operators in the area did not have valid mining licences.

The Head of the Attorney-General's Office for the Western and Western North regions, Angela Oboshie Abba, said the engagement formed part of efforts to enforce the law while protecting community interests and addressing illegal mining. The company, Global Ore, assured the community that it would adhere to safety standards, comply with the government's local content policy, and promote community development by creating opportunities for local businesses, engineers, and service providers.

Global Ore has the legal right to operate on its mining concessions at Bompieso and Abosso, the Attorney-General's Office confirmed. The company has paid the required fees and royalties, and is therefore entitled to operate without interference.

Source: Ghanaian Times