Mpatuam, Ashanti Region – September 10, 2025 — Tensions in the Amansie West District reached a deadly peak on Tuesday after a violent confrontation between residents of Mpatuam and security personnel at the Asanko Mine left one assembly member dead and two others injured.
The deceased, Samuel Danquah, Assembly Member for Aboabo, was confirmed dead at a local hospital after being struck by bullets allegedly fired by soldiers during the chaotic standoff. Two others sustained gunshot wounds and are currently receiving treatment.
Background to the Violence
The unrest was triggered by allegations that mine security personnel killed a miner on Monday, September 8, sparking anger among community members. In protest, residents mounted roadblocks, demanding accountability and immediate action against those responsible.
According to Kwame Sakyi, Assembly Member for Mpatuam, attempts to defuse the situation spiraled into violence when armed soldiers guarding the mining concession reportedly opened fire on the crowd.
“During the confrontation, sporadic gunshots were fired. Unfortunately, one of the bullets struck the Assemblyman, who was only trying to mediate,” Sakyi told reporters.
Escalation and Eyewitness Accounts
Eyewitnesses said the late assemblyman was caught in the crossfire while attempting to calm tensions between the bereaved family and security officials. “He was shot multiple times in the process,” one resident recounted.
The 45-year-old’s body was later deposited at the Mother of God Clinic in Esaase Bontefufuo, where distraught residents of Aboabo and Mpatuam thronged the premises, wailing and vowing revenge.
A clinic staff member noted that clashes between residents and security forces are not uncommon in the area, as locals often attempt to scavenge gold from mine debris. “Unfortunately, the Assemblyman, who was only trying to mediate, lost his life,” the staff said.
Calls for Justice
Family members of the deceased have condemned the shooting, insisting that Samuel Danquah was not engaged in illegal mining but was fulfilling his duty as a community leader.
“My brother was not a galamseyer. He was trying to resolve the brewing standoff, and they shot him. We demand justice,” a relative told journalists.
Aftermath
In the wake of the killing, enraged youth reportedly set vehicles and property belonging to the mine ablaze, escalating fears of further violence in the district. Witnesses described the scene as “chaotic,” with residents chanting and calling for swift government intervention.
Local authorities have yet to issue a formal statement, but security has been tightened around the mining concession as investigations continue.
Source – My News Ghana
