Asanko Gold Refutes Intimidation Claims, Clarifies Military Presence at Tontokrom Is State-Sanctioned Security Measure

Asanko Gold Ghana Ltd. has officially responded to recent allegations made by some residents of Tontokrom regarding the presence of military personnel within the community, describing the claims as misleading and unsubstantiated.

During a press conference held in Tontokrom on Saturday, July 26, 2025, some community members accused the company of deploying armed military personnel to intimidate and harass local residents, raising concerns about human rights and community safety. The issue sparked significant attention both locally and in the wider mining sector.

However, in a press release issued on Monday, July 28, 2025, and signed by Charles Amoah, Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Asanko Gold Ghana Ltd., the company categorically refuted the allegations, stating that the military presence in the area forms part of a state-mandated security initiative spearheaded by the Ghana Chamber of Mines and coordinated by the Ghana Armed Forces.

“Asanko Gold did not independently deploy the military to Tontokrom,” the statement emphasized. “The security arrangement is a lawful, national intervention aimed at protecting licensed mining companies across Ghana from the growing threat of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.”

The company clarified that illegal mining activities not only endanger the environment and human lives but also disrupt legal mining operations, erode investor confidence, and result in massive revenue losses for the state. The national security response, therefore, is designed to stabilize the mining sector and create a safer, regulated environment for both investors and host communities.

Asanko Gold noted that the security deployment was approved by the Ghana Armed Forces and carried out with the full knowledge and support of the District Security Councils (DISEC) of both Amansie West and Amansie South Districts. Prior to the deployment, several stakeholder engagements were held with traditional authorities, local government officials, and community representatives to discuss the goals of the operation.

“The military presence is not punitive, nor is it targeted at innocent civilians. It is solely to ensure law and order in and around legitimate mining concessions,” the company clarified.

The press release further revealed that similar deployments in other mining districts have yielded positive results, with illegal miners voluntarily vacating concession areas and supporting government-led efforts to curb galamsey activities. Asanko Gold expressed hope that a similar spirit of cooperation would be realized in Tontokrom.

Reaffirming its commitment to community development, the company stressed that it values its relationship with the people of Tontokrom and remains committed to open dialogue, transparency, and shared progress.

“Asanko Gold remains deeply committed to nurturing mutually respectful and beneficial relationships with all our host communities, including Tontokrom. We believe open communication and genuine partnerships are key to sustainable development,” Mr. Amoah stated.

He also urged the public to disregard what he described as “inaccurate claims” made during the recent press conference, warning that such statements could damage the longstanding goodwill and collaboration that exist between the company and the local communities.

The company encouraged stakeholders who still have concerns or questions to reach out through appropriate and established communication channels, affirming that its doors remain open to dialogue.

For further information, the public can contact the Managing Director via the company’s official communication lines provided in the release.