The technical director of the Wassa Association of Communities Affected by Mining (WACAM), Kwaku Afari has raised an urgent alarm over the violent clashes between illegal miners and security forces guarding mining concessions.
In an interview on the Asaase Breakfast Show (ABS) on Monday, January 20, Afari expressed grave concern about the potential consequences of escalating violence in the mining sector. "This situation has become a systemic trend for the past almost two decades," Afari said, reflecting on the ongoing issue.
He explained that the rising frequency of violent encounters between illegal miners and security personnel was not just an isolated issue, but part of a disturbing pattern that had worsened over time. "We've seen guard dogs set on these miners, and in many cases, physical violence has been used by both private and state security forces. "I've personally witnessed these brutal incidents, and it's becoming clear that this is not just a few isolated cases.
It's happening across the board," Afari continued, emphasizing the widespread nature of the violence.
