The Paramount Chief of Wenchi Traditional Area, Osagyefo Ampem Anye Amoampong Tabrako III, has expressed concern about the ongoing illegal mining operations at Atuna, a community within his jurisdiction.

A statement issued by the office of the Paramount Chief of Wenchi and signed by Reindorf Oware said, "This notice is a clear reminder that no company or individual has received permission from the Omanhene to exploit the land for mining purposes”.

“Effective immediately by order of Osagyefo Ampem Anye Amoampong Tabrako III, all companies involved in the illicit mining are ordered to vacate the premises without delay.

All operations must cease, and you are required to remove any machinery and equipment from the site by 6:00 pm today, January 5, 2025,” the statement directs.

The statement further directed individuals and companies involved to fill and cover completely all excavated pits to mitigate potential dangers, while any destroyed land must be restored to its original condition to preserve the integrity of the area.

Non-compliance with these instructions will lead to serious repercussions" the statement warned.

The Omanhene urges everyone to respect the land and abide by the laws governing the Wenchi Traditional Area,” the statement stressed.

Osagyefo Tabrako also called on all living under the Wenchi stool to cooperate in this critical matter and prevent the destruction of the environment.  

Meanwhile, JoyNews has learnt that the Toafohene of the Wenchi Traditional Area, Nana Akoratua Adutwum Kyeremeh Siasaa Kuffour IV, is galvanizing support of natives of Wenchi to stage a demonstration on Monday, January 13, 2025 to render their displeasure about the occurrence.