FJ Minerals Limited Maintains It Operates Legally and Responsibly, Rejects Unfounded Kobeng Youth Allegations
FJ Minerals Limited has issued a strong rejoinder to a press release issued on Tuesday, 11th November 2025, by a group calling itself the “Concerned Youth of Kobeng,” describing the publication as containing false, misleading, and malicious allegations regarding the company’s operations in the Jimira area of the Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality in the Ashanti Region.
In its official statement, FJ Minerals Limited emphasized that the claims made by the youth group are entirely untrue and appear designed to tarnish the company’s reputation and mislead the public, traditional authorities, and government agencies.
Lawful Operation and Compliance with Regulations
The company categorically stated that it is a legally registered Ghanaian company, licensed by both the Minerals Commission of Ghana and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to undertake large-scale mining operations within its legally designated concession area, including parts of the Jimira Forest Reserve.
FJ Minerals Limited stressed that all operations are fully compliant with the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), its amendments (Act 900 and Act 995), the Environmental Protection Act, and operational and safety guidelines issued by the Forestry Commission and EPA.
The company highlighted its official licenses and permits:
- Mining Lease issued by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources on 21st June 2023.
- Entry Permit issued by the Forestry Commission on 16th June 2025.
- Water Use Permit issued by the Water Resources Commission on 27th February 2025.
- Environmental Permit issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on 4th September 2024.
“These documents confirm that FJ Minerals Limited operates entirely within the law and with the approval of all relevant authorities,” the company said.
Environmental Responsibility
FJ Minerals Limited affirmed that environmental sustainability is at the core of its operations. The company completed a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which was approved by the EPA prior to any activity.
The company has implemented several measures to ensure responsible mining, including:
- Ongoing land reclamation and environmental rehabilitation programs;
- Prohibition of harmful chemicals such as mercury and cyanide;
- Regular environmental monitoring to prevent contamination of water and soil.
“These measures are verifiable and subject to regular inspection by the EPA and the Minerals Commission,” the statement added.
Engagement with the Community
FJ Minerals Limited rejected claims that it had failed to engage with the community, stating that it has held multiple meetings with chiefs, elders, and youth representatives of Kobeng and adjoining communities.
Its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives include:
- Support for community road rehabilitation;
- Employment opportunities for local youth;
- Periodic donations for community development projects.
The company reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining open dialogue and mutual respect with all stakeholders in the Kobeng area.
False Allegations of Intimidation
Addressing claims of intimidation and harassment, FJ Minerals Limited described the allegations as baseless and defamatory.
The company clarified that it employs only licensed private security officers, who operate strictly within the law to protect company property from illegal miners and trespassers.
“At no point has FJ Minerals Limited authorized the intimidation or harassment of any community member. Any individual with genuine grievances is encouraged to use lawful channels for redress,” the company said.
Misrepresentation of Ownership
FJ Minerals Limited also refuted claims regarding an individual known as “Burger,” clarifying that the company is a registered corporate entity governed by a Board of Directors and subject to the Companies Act, 2019 (Act 992). Its ownership and leadership structure are publicly verifiable through the Registrar of Companies.
The company noted that mining activities have not yet commenced on any portion of the concession allocated by the state. It emphasized that the false claims do not represent the views of the majority of Kobeng residents but are rather the reaction of a few individuals dissatisfied with the company’s lawful security measures to prevent illegal small-scale mining (galamsey).
Commitment to Transparency
FJ Minerals Limited reiterated its openness to independent verification by the EPA, Minerals Commission, Forestry Commission, and the media to confirm the truth of its operations.
“We welcome any lawful investigation and are confident that such processes will expose the falsehoods being circulated,” the company said.
The company also cautioned the authors of the misleading press release to desist from further defamatory publications and engage instead through proper community dialogue channels.
Conclusion
FJ Minerals Limited assured the public that it will continue to operate in full compliance with Ghanaian laws, guided by principles of transparency, environmental consciousness, and respect for its host communities.
“We urge the general public, media, and all stakeholders to disregard the false publication by the so-called ‘Concerned Youth of Kobeng’ and to seek clarification directly from the relevant state agencies or our company,” the statement concluded.
FJ Minerals Limited reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to responsible mining, environmental stewardship, and community development in the Ashanti Region and across Ghana.
Signed:
Management of FJ Minerals Limited
Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality,
Ashanti Region – Ghana
