At least seven people have been killed in a violent confrontation between soldiers and illegal miners at a site in the central Ashanti region of Ghana, according to the Ghana Armed Forces.

The incident occurred when around 60 miners, armed with weapons including “pump action guns,” attempted to force their way into an AngloGold Ashanti-operated mine.

The miners opened fire on the soldiers when intercepted, prompting the military to retaliate in self-defense, resulting in fatalities and injuries, the army stated in a press release.

However, a representative of the miners denied claims that the miners were armed, disputing the military’s version of events.

Following the deaths, protests erupted in Obuasi, the town near the mine. Angered residents stormed the grounds of AngloGold Ashanti, setting at least three vehicles and other equipment ablaze. Several buses were also torched during the unrest.

In response to the violence, President John Mahama has ordered a full investigation. He assured that anyone found guilty of unlawful conduct will face justice. The presidency’s statement confirmed that eight people had died, despite earlier reports citing seven fatalities.

The government has instructed AngloGold Ashanti to cover the medical expenses of the injured and burial costs for the deceased. Security agencies have been deployed to ensure peace in the area.

The company has reported that the situation has since calmed, and it is collaborating with authorities on the ongoing investigation. A spokesperson emphasized the company’s primary concern for the safety and health of its employees and the affected community members.

Kofi Adams, the local chairman of the Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners, called the violence “unprecedented.” Speaking to Reuters, Adams said that nine people had died and 14 had been severely injured.

He expressed confusion over the escalation of the situation, stating that in previous confrontations, warning shots had been fired to deter intruders.

The Ghana Armed Forces reiterated that the illegal miners were armed with locally made rifles, pump action guns, and other weapons, and insisted it had a duty to protect itself, civilians, and property, including through the use of lethal force if necessary.

Tensions between AngloGold Ashanti and local residents have been building for some time. Many accuse the company of exploiting mineral resources without adequately contributing to the region’s development or creating jobs.

Some small-scale mining associations have called for a share of the company’s mining concessions.

In response, AngloGold Ashanti maintains that it has contributed significantly to the local communities, including through infrastructure projects and employment.

The unrest Is also a reflection of broader tensions in Ghana, where the country is grappling with a severe economic crisis marked by high inflation, public debt, and unemployment.

The crisis has led to a surge in small-scale mining, including illegal and unregulated operations that have been criticized for their harmful environmental impact.

As part of the fallout from the violence, some schools built and managed by AngloGold Ashanti in the area have shut down for two days, following the disturbances. (AriseNews TV)