Newmont calls for enhanced protection of its Ahafo operations

Newmont Ghana says it will continue to rely on government, community leaders and security agencies to protect its people, property and communities following attacks by suspected illegal minors against national and corporate security protecting its Ahafo South mine.

Newmont Ghana has worked with the National Police and Ahafo Regional Police to responsibly remove illegal artisanal miners from the mining area of ​​its Ahafo South mine following continued illegal encroachment in mining.

The latest of these attacks took place on Wednesday July 14, 2021 when illegal operators wielding weapons and machetes attacked police who reportedly reacted in self-defense. The illegal miners then blocked and prevented access to community roads, intercepted buses of employees and contractors, and vandalized company property.

A similar incident occurred two weeks ago following the arrest of seven illegal miners at one of the Ahafo South mines in Newmont Ghana. A group of suspected illegal miners, demanding the release of the seven operators, company buses and vandalized contractors used to transport workers from surrounding communities to work.

“It is worrying that small-scale illegal miners repeatedly threaten the safety of our employees, assets and communities. We will continue to work with government and other stakeholders to protect our workforce, communities and assets as we focus on creating value that benefits our workforce, the host communities. and the country as a whole, ”said François Hardy, Regional Senior Vice President, Africa Operations. .

The company remains committed to undertaking responsible and sustainable mining that creates shared value for its stakeholders and will continue to engage in good faith dialogue and collaboration with government, community leaders and security agencies to bring peace and stability in its areas of operation while creating alternative employment opportunities for its host communities.