Birim Central MCE Refutes GHC 15,000 Extortion Claims, Presents Receipts for Legitimate Fines

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The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Birim Central, Solomon Kusi Brako, has vehemently denied allegations of extorting GHC 15,000 from miners, clarifying that the payments in question were legitimate fines imposed on unlicensed small-scale miners.
The claims, primarily made by Akyem Oda MP Alexander Kwasi Acquah and other individuals, accused Mr. Brako of demanding sums of up to GHC 15,000, allegedly to secure the release of seized excavators.

Addressing a news conference, Mr. Brako explained that the monies were collected as fines from small-scale miners found operating without valid permits within the tributary of Great Consolidated Diamonds Ghana Limited (GCDGL) in Akyem Oda. He emphasized that these payments were legally processed and paid directly into the Birim Central Municipal Assembly's coffers, providing official receipts to substantiate his claims and demonstrate transparency.
The MCE firmly rejected the extortion accusations, reiterating his administration's unwavering commitment to fostering responsible mining practices and strict adherence to environmental laws. He urged the public to always verify facts before making accusations, stressing the importance of accuracy and fairness in public discourse.

Mr. Kusi Brako further recounted numerous instances where he, alongside the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC), has actively cracked down on illegal mining, locally known as 'galamsey,' along the Birim River in Akyem Oda. These operations, he noted, have led to the seizure of excavators, control boards, and the destruction of illicit mining equipment like Changfan machines.

He appealed to residents to rally behind his ongoing efforts, promising swift and decisive action to halt illegal activities and facilitate the restoration of the Birim River to its natural, pristine state.

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