The National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Talensi Constituency of the Upper East Region has condemned the recent joint security operation at the Gbane Mining site, which tragically resulted in the loss of life.
On March 15, 2024, a joint security force comprising military and police personnel, under the auspices of the District Security Council and Regional Security Council, responded to a request from Earl International, a mining company operating in the area, to shut down 15 alleged ‘illegal’ mining pits within its concession.
However, what was intended as a routine enforcement action swiftly escalated into a scene of chaos and tragedy. Reports indicate that the security personnel resorted to the use of excessive force against the small-scale miners and residents present at the site. Warning shots were fired, purportedly to disperse the crowd, resulting in the tragic death of one individual who was struck by a bullet. Several others sustained injuries and were rushed to the Upper East Regional Hospital for medical attention.
In a press release dated 18th March 2024, the NDC leadership in the area denounced the actions of the security agencies, labeling them as ‘excessive’ and ‘unwarranted’.
The party questioned why peaceful mediation channels were not explored by the District Security Council and Regional Security Council, both under the leadership of the District Chief Executive and the Upper East Regional Minister, respectively.
The leadership also expressed profound concern over the lack of accountability exhibited by the authorities, emphasizing that such actions constitute flagrant violations of human rights and the rule of law.
The release, signed by the party’s Constituency Secretary Augustine Guure, Chairman John Millim Nabwomya, and the Parliamentary Candidate Daniel Dung Mahama, highlighted the government’s responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens, emphasizing the need for swift and transparent investigations into the incident.
They demanded that perpetrators be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law, stressing the importance of delivering justice for the innocent victims who suffered as a result of the security forces’ actions.
They also called upon the government to address the root causes that have allowed such instances of brutality to occur, as well as intervention from the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) and other relevant investigative agencies to ensure accountability and prevent future occurrences of violence.
Source:A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Moses Apiah|Ghana
