Mining firm Extra Gold has rejected claims that it has illegally diverted the Birim River at Apapam in the Eastern Region and destroyed part of the Atewa Forest ecological restoration site, describing the allegations as “false, misleading, and a misrepresentation of the facts.”

In a statement issued by the company, Extra Gold stressed that its operations are lawful and regulated by the appropriate state agencies.

The company explained that neither its owner, Emmanuel Gamah, nor any of its operations had tampered with the Birim River or altered its natural course.

According to the company, what has been misconstrued as an attempt to divert the river was, in fact, the start of a bridge construction project near Apapam.

Extra Gold said preliminary studies revealed that trucks intended for use in its planned mining operations could pollute the river if allowed to cross directly through the stream.

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As a preventive measure, the company opted to build a bridge.

“Any bulldozing observed on site relates solely to preparatory work for the bridge, which is a normal part of construction and not a diversion of the river,” the statement clarified.

Extra Gold further noted that it has not yet commenced mining in the Apapam area, making it “factually wrong” to suggest that the company has destroyed a three-year-old ecological restoration site or tampered with the riverbed.

Reiterating its commitment to responsible and sustainable mining, the company maintained that it fully supports the government’s fight against illegal mining.

“We neither have the intention nor the mandate to pollute the Birim River or destroy ecological restoration projects,” Extra Gold said.

The company urged the public to disregard what it described as false claims in circulation, assuring that it remains committed to transparency, lawful operations, and the protection of Ghana’s environment and cultural heritage.