The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has launched an investigation into a deadly shooting incident at Manso Keniago in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region, which claimed four lives and left 15 people injured.
The tragic incident reportedly occurred following a confrontation between residents of the community and personnel of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS).
In a statement released on Friday, November 13, 2026, the Ministry described the development as deeply unfortunate and expressed sadness over the deaths and injuries recorded during the confrontation.
The Ministry said both the sector minister and the institution were concerned about the incident and had initiated efforts to establish the exact circumstances that led to the shooting.
It assured Ghanaians that the necessary steps would be taken to uncover the facts surrounding the confrontation and determine what happened.
Lands Ministry Expresses Sympathy to Victims of Manso Keniago Shooting
The Ministry extended its condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and expressed sympathy to all civilians and military personnel affected by the incident.
It acknowledged the suffering of the injured victims and the grief experienced by families following the deadly confrontation.
The Ministry further emphasised that the protection of human life and public safety must remain central to all activities within Ghana’s natural resources sector.
NAIMOS Operations Must Respect Human Rights – Lands Ministry
Addressing concerns surrounding the incident, the Ministry stressed that all operations and engagements involving institutions under the natural resources sector must be conducted in accordance with the law.
It highlighted the importance of professionalism, accountability and respect for human rights during enforcement operations, particularly those targeting illegal mining activities.
The Ministry’s position comes amid renewed public attention on the conduct of anti-illegal mining operations and the relationship between enforcement agencies and communities affected by galamsey activities.
Residents Urged to Remain Calm as Investigations Continue
The Ministry has appealed to residents of Manso Keniago and neighbouring communities to remain calm and avoid actions that could further escalate tensions.
It also encouraged community members to exercise restraint and cooperate with the relevant authorities to facilitate investigations into the shooting.
The investigation is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the confrontation between residents and NAIMOS personnel, as authorities seek to address the incident and its consequences.
The deadly shooting has renewed attention on the need for lawful enforcement of Ghana’s anti-illegal mining measures while protecting the lives, rights and safety of affected communities.
Source: newsthemegh.com