(7th right) George Mireku Duker, Deputy Lands Minister, in a group photo with some workers of the Golden Star Wassa Limited
A Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources in charge of mines, George Mireku Duker, has given the assurance that government will collaborate with relevant security authorities to ensure that culprits behind an attack at the Benso Mine of Golden Star Wassa Limited (GSWL) are brought to book.
Some illegal miners attacked the mining company’s concession on Thursday, March 16, 2023. The attack, which claimed a life, also caused injuries to four persons and the destruction of some property belonging to the mining company.
Facilitating operations
Speaking during a working visit to the company on Friday, Mr Mireku Duker said the Ministry has decided to assume responsibilities as it recognized its key position as a facilitator of the operations of licensed mining companies in the country.
He condemned the actions of the youth, adding that government had already taken measures to avoid a recurrence of same.
Relaying a message of sympathy and commiserations from the sector Minister, Samuel Abu Jinapor, to the victims, management and staff of the company, the Deputy Minister noted that once the mining company has its requisite license, government would always create the enabling environment for them to discharge their duties.
“… but we want to comfort you and indicate to you that the government is solidly behind you. We will assist in making sure that the perpetrators are brought to book and I’m happy that the law enforcement agencies are dealing with this”, he stated.
After a tour of the site, the Deputy Minister expressed delight with renovation works ongoing and commended the company for restoring their operations in a relatively short period after the incident.
Improved relationship
For his part, the Western Regional Minister, Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, urged the company to improve its relationship with the community.
He reaffirmed his readiness and commitment to the process, and advised that “the company must take the initiative to address the concerns of the community”.
The Senior Manager of the Processing Department of the company, Owusu Achiaw, recounted the events of the day and counted the losses of the company.
He described as welcoming the visit of the Deputy Minister and the Regional Minister, saying “it is a firm indicative of government’s interest in their operations.”
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