Arson Attacks Plague Amenfi Central Mining Communities, Leaving Miners in Despair

Amenfi Central, Ghana – A troubling wave of arson attacks on mining equipment in the Amenfi Central District has thrown both legal and illegal miners into a state of fear and economic uncertainty. Unidentified individuals are reportedly setting fire to excavators and other vital machinery under the cover of darkness, crippling mining operations and threatening the livelihoods of hundreds.

The motive behind these coordinated attacks remains unknown, deepening anxiety among miners and prompting urgent calls for government intervention.

One of the most recent incidents occurred in Wassa Ankwaso, where several machines were torched. The increasing frequency of such attacks has created a climate of fear and frustration, particularly among miners who insist they are following environmental and legal guidelines.

“We are not mining near any rivers or water bodies, and we cover every pit after work,” said Chairman Daniel, a spokesperson for the affected miners. “We don’t understand why someone would come and burn our excavators.”

For miners already grappling with economic challenges, the destruction of heavy machinery represents a catastrophic loss. Many now face the grim reality of being unable to feed their families or continue their work.

In response, miners are appealing to the government and security agencies to investigate the incidents. They suspect the attacks are not random acts of vandalism, but a deliberate effort to disrupt mining activities in the area.

“The government and authorities must act. They should investigate and find those responsible,” one distressed miner pleaded.

Beyond demanding justice, the miners are also seeking financial support and compensation to help them recover from the devastating losses. They argue that without assistance, many will be pushed further into poverty.

Miners are particularly calling on Hon. Joana Gyan Cudjoe, Member of Parliament for Amenfi Central, District Chief Executive Peter Amposah, and other key stakeholders to visit the affected sites. They hope that a firsthand inspection of their operations will prove they are not violating mining regulations.

> “We want the MP, the DCE, and all stakeholders to come and witness our operations. Let them see for themselves whether we are breaking any mining laws,” Chairman Daniel appealed.

The situation in Amenfi Central is becoming increasingly dire. The ongoing arson attacks not only endanger the livelihoods of miners but also risk destabilizing the broader community. Without immediate and decisive action from authorities, the future of responsible mining in the area—and the well-being of its people—remains under serious threat.