Birim Central Municipal Chief Executive Solomon Kusi Brako has denied allegations of extorting GH ₵ 15,000 from miners.

It follows claims that Mr Brako demanded payments of up to GH₵15,000 to release seized excavators.

At a news conference, Mr Brako explained that small-scale miners operating without permits within the tributary of Great Consolidated Diamonds Ghana Limited (GCDGL) in Akyem Oda were fined, with the payment made into the Assembly's coffers.

“In the fee-fixing resolution, if someone operates a business without the Assembly’s permit, a fine is imposed. So, our Municipal Finance Officer told them [the miners] that they had to pay GH₵15,000 to the Assembly.

“The GH₵15,000 being talked about was not paid to the Municipal Chief Executive; it was paid to the Municipal Finance Officer. So, the allegations are false, baseless, and unfounded,” he statedHe also provided receipts to support his claim, demonstrating transparency in the transaction.

The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Birim Central, Solomon Kusi Brako, has denied allegations of extorting money from illegal miners.

The MCE emphasised his administration's commitment to responsible mining practices and adherence to the law.

He urged the public to verify facts before making accusations, highlighting the importance of accuracy and fairness in public discourse.

Mr. Brako recounted the numerous times he and the Municipal Security Council have cracked down on illegal mining (galamsey) along the Birim River in Akyem Oda, seizing excavators, control boards, burning Changfan machines, and other mining equipment.

He called on residents to rally behind him, promising immediate action to halt the illegal activities and restore the river to its natural state.