A group calling itself the Concerned Citizens of Adansi has condemned the recent violent clash between the military and some illegal miners at an abandoned mine concession of Anglogold Ashanti (AGA) mine in Obuasi.

The tragic incident, which occurred on Saturday, January 18, 2025, resulted in the death of nine persons and severe injuries to eight others, throwing families and the mining town into mourning.

Families and other social groups have called for thorough investigations as assured by President Mahama following the tragic loss.

The Concerned Citizens of Adansi, a community-based advocacy group, is urging the Ghana Police Service to conduct a fair and transparent investigation to identify the perpetrators and ensure justice is served.

“The government needs to take immediate steps to restore peace and stability in Obuasi and its surrounding areas,” the group said in a statement.

In their demands, they want immediate government support for affected families, including compensation for their losses and care for the injured.

They also stress the need to uphold the human rights of all citizens, including small-scale miners, who should not be subjected to violence.

The group is demanding the implementation of alternative livelihood programs to provide sustainable employment for communities impacted by AngloGold Ashanti’s operations.

“The lack of employment opportunities for local youth has forced many to rely on small-scale mining for survival. Just as coastal communities depend on fishing, mining communities should have sustainable means of earning a living,” the statement further read.

The concerned citizens are also advocating for the creation of designated zones within mining communities where small-scale miners can operate legally and safely, ensuring a fair balance between large-scale mining activities and the livelihood needs of local residents.

They appealed to the government, political leaders, Asantehene, Otumfo Osei Tutu II, and other traditional authorities to collaborate in find lasting solutions to the challenges faced by the people of Adansi.

“Justice must not only be served for the victims of the recent violence but also for the long-suffering communities affected by AGA’s mining activities. Immediate action is necessary to address these grievances and ensure the well-being of the affected families and communities,” the statement concluded