Tension is rising in Salman, a mining community in the Ellembelle District of the Western Region, following a surge in illegal mining activities and the arrest of five suspected illegal miners.
The suspects were apprehended by the Essiama District Police Command, with support from local youth, for engaging in illegal mining on a concession belonging to Adamus Resources Limited.
The development has sparked concern among sections of the community, with some youth calling on President John Dramani Mahama and the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, to intervene.
Earlier, the Concerned Youth of Nzema have petitioned the Lands Minister over what they describe as the unlawful entry of some youth from Salman into the operational area of Adamus Resources.
According to the group, the alleged trespass disrupted operations at the mining site and posed a threat to peace and security in the area.
In a statement signed by its President, Jonas Kabutey, and presented at a news conference at Nkroful, the group condemned the incident.
“Trespassing on the company’s property, disrupting operations or engaging in any activity that threatens peace and security is unlawful and unacceptable and does not represent the values of the youth and the good people of Nzema,” the statement said.
Mr Kabutey noted that such actions risk undermining jobs, investments and development initiatives that benefit the wider Nzema community.
He stressed that violence, intimidation and unlawful entry could not be justified under any circumstances and urged restraint among the youth.
While acknowledging concerns related to employment, compensation and community-company relations, he maintained that dialogue and lawful engagement remain the appropriate means of resolving grievances.
He further warned that ongoing efforts by stakeholders to secure sustainable employment opportunities for the youth were being undermined by what he described as “individual and parochial interests.”
The group has called on those involved in the incident to cooperate with authorities and refrain from further unlawful acts.
It also appealed to the management of Adamus Resources Limited to intensify engagement with community leaders to address concerns and strengthen relations with host communities.
Mr Kabutey assured security agencies of the group’s full cooperation in maintaining peace and order in the area.
