The Ghana Chamber of Mines has strongly condemned threats issued by the Artisanal Small-Scale Miners Association (ASSMA) in Obuasi, describing the group’s one-week ultimatum to the government and AngloGold Ashanti Ghana (AGAG) as a dangerous act that undermines national stability and the rule of law.

In a statement, the Chamber said it is deeply concerned about media reports suggesting that small-scale miners intend to “advise themselves” if their demands are not met.

It warned that such threats pose serious risks to peace in the Obuasi municipality and the broader mining sector.

The Chamber also addressed widespread misinformation regarding security operations at the Obuasi Mine. It clarified that military officers stationed at the site act under the authority of the National Security Council and not AGAG.

“These personnel are State security officials deployed to protect a strategic national asset and enforce the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703),” the statement said.

“The narrative that mine management is unilaterally directing security operations against citizens is factually incorrect.”

The Chamber expressed sympathy to families affected by the January 18, 2025, incident that resulted in the loss of life but stressed that security operations remain a national mandate.

Responding to claims that AGAG has failed to provide land for small-scale mining, the Chamber revealed that the company has already relinquished about 60 per cent of its original concession to the government.

“This unprecedented release of land was intended to support community development and enable regulated small-scale mining,” the statement noted.

“Unauthorised incursions into the remaining active operational areas undermine the orderly development of the sector.”

The Chamber emphasised the mine’s significant socio-economic role, citing AGAG’s 10-Year Socio-Economic Development Plan and the Obuasi Community Trust Fund, which invest heavily in education, health and infrastructure.

It warned that such investments depend on a secure environment free from unlawful activities.

Contrary to allegations of poor communication, the Chamber said AGAG is actively participating in tripartite discussions with the government and leaders of the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners (GNASSM).

These engagements, it said, are guided by a Framework of Understanding that supports the government’s Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (RCOMSDEP).

“Bypassing these established structures to issue ultimatums through the media is counterproductive,” it added.

The Chamber urged the government to treat the ultimatum as a serious security concern and take lawful steps to safeguard lives, property, and national assets.

It further called on ASSMA to return to the official dialogue platforms and cautioned the media to verify information regarding land ownership and security mandates to avoid heightening tensions.

“The Ghana Chamber of Mines stands with AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited and reaffirms that responsible mining can only thrive in an environment of law and order,” the statement concluded.