Ghana illegal mining clash leaves two injured by gunfire

Two individuals sustained gunshot wounds during a violent confrontation between rival groups at an illegal mining site in Behenase, near Awiregya, in Ghana’s Eastern Region. The clash occurred within the Kwahu West Municipality and has caused significant alarm among local residents.

The victims were transported to the Holy Family Hospital in Nkawkaw for medical treatment. One victim reportedly sustained serious injuries to his genital area. While the specific trigger for the dispute remains unclear, local officials and residents noted that tensions surrounding ‘galamsey’—illegal mining—have been building in the area.

Sampson Tenkorang, the Assembly Member for the Awiregya Electoral Area, has called for urgent intervention from National Security and law enforcement agencies. He urged authorities to intensify operations to curb illegal mining and implement stronger security measures to protect lives and property in mining communities.