Illegal mining, or galamsey, in Konongo, Ashanti Region, is endangering power supply to parts of the Ashanti and Eastern Regions as miners have invaded the Northern Ashanti Mines’ concession, where key GRIDCo substation pylons are located, putting critical infrastructure at risk.
The GRIDCo substation, situated within the operational area of Northern Ashanti Mines, faces imminent danger due to ongoing illegal mining activities that have compromised several pylons. This raises the threat of power outages affecting Konongo Township and nearby communities.
Despite efforts by the mine’s security task force, galamsey activities persist, frustrating the mining company’s attempts to protect the area. The company has reported difficulties in engaging local security agencies, including the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) and the Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC), to address the situation.
In a recent escalation, the mine’s task force was attacked by armed individuals, resulting in injuries and property damage. The ongoing illegal mining not only threatens the company’s operations but also poses a serious risk to regional power supply.
The mining company now fears an impending confrontation between its security personnel and the illegal miners, as intelligence suggests the galamseyers are planning another assault on the mine and its employees on Thursday, October 10.