Residents of Nsuapemso in Ghana's Eastern Region were plunged into fear on October 1, 2026, as gunshots rang out during a security operation at the Nawara Mining Company's office. The operation, conducted by personnel from National Security, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the Ghana Police Service, aimed to arrest the company's Managing Director, Accountant, and other staff members. The incident resulted in two injuries and the arrest of several individuals, who were taken to the Eastern South Regional Police Command for further investigation.
The Queenmother of Nsuapemso, Obaapayin Kyerewaa I, expressed concern over the growing insecurity linked to mining activities in the area. She stated that the sound of gunfire sent residents scrambling for safety, with many forced to remain indoors during the operation. The incident is part of an escalating dispute over control of the mining concession involving Nawara Mining Company and CMS & A&A PRO Mining Company, which is managing the revoked Nawara mining concession.
Nawara Mining Company claims its concession was taken over despite a court injunction issued on February 19, 2026, allowing it to continue operating while the dispute is being determined. The company alleges that armed personnel and civilians previously entered its mining site, seized equipment and gold-bearing materials, and damaged or destroyed parts of its mining infrastructure. A petition was subsequently filed with the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) on August 12, including allegations of a death, gunshot injuries, destruction of mining equipment, and seizure of gold and gold concentrate valued at over GH¢100 million.
The dispute over the mining concession involves Nawara's mining lease, an earlier administrative termination, and competing claims over the right to operate the concession. Nawara Mining Company has held the concession since 2011, with its mining lease renewed in 2020 and remaining valid until 2029. The incident has heightened concerns among residents as the dispute over the concession continues, sparking fears of further violence and instability in the area.
The security operation and arrests have added to tensions over control of the large-scale gold-mining concession in the Akyem Hemang/Nsuapemso area of the Fanteakwa South District. The incident is expected to escalate the dispute, with residents and stakeholders anxiously awaiting a resolution to the conflict. The Ghanaian authorities have not released further details on the investigation or the arrested individuals.
The mining concession dispute has significant implications for the local community, with many residents employed by the mining companies or dependent on the industry for their livelihoods. The conflict has also raised concerns about the impact of mining on the environment and the need for effective regulation and oversight. The authorities are expected to take steps to restore calm and stability to the area.
The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges and risks associated with mining in Ghana, particularly in areas with competing claims and disputes over concessions. The government and stakeholders must work together to address the root causes of the conflict and find a peaceful resolution to the dispute, ensuring the safety and well-being of local communities and the sustainability of the mining industry.
Key points
- Two injured in gunfire incident during raid at Nawara Mining office in Ghana's Eastern Region.
- Dispute over mining concession control involves Nawara Mining Company and CMS & A&A PRO Mining Company.
- Incident sparks fears of further violence and instability in the area amid concerns over growing insecurity linked to mining activities.
