The Director General of The Ghana Armed Forces, Brigadier General E. Aggrey-Quashie has shed light on the infamous confrontation that took place on the night of Saturday, 18 January 2025.
In a statement released, he confirmed the clash between the illegals and the soldiers, recalling that at about 11:00 pm, a group of approximately 60 illegal miners breached the security fence at the Anglo Gold Ashanti mines and attempted to access the Deep Decline area at Cote D’or Ramp.
He said military personnel deployed on Operation HALT II duties at the site confronted the miners as they tried to enter the restricted area.
“The illegal miners, armed with locally manufactured rifles, pump action guns, gas cylinders, knives, heavy-duty industrial bolt cutters, axes, and machetes, opened fire on the soldiers,” Brigadier General Aggrey-Quashie explained. “In self-defence, the troops returned fire.”
The shootout led to the death of seven illegal miners, with one other seriously injured. The remaining miners fled the scene.
“A soldier was also injured by pellets from a pump action gun and has since received treatment for his injuries,” Brigadier General Aggrey-Quashie confirmed. During the operation, six pump action BB cartridges were recovered.
The Ghana Armed Forces emphasized the right of military personnel to defend themselves, innocent civilians, and property, including the use of lethal force if necessary.
“Military personnel on authorized duty have the right to defend themselves, and the use of lethal force is permitted if necessary to preserve life,” stated Brigadier General Aggrey-Quashie.
