Illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, in Konongo, Ashanti Region, is endangering power supply to parts of both the Ashanti and Eastern regions, according to Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) report.

The activities of galamseyers have infiltrated the Northern Ashanti Mines' concession, where crucial GRIDCo sub-station pylons are located, placing vital infrastructure at serious risk.

The GRIDCo sub-station, situated within the Northern Ashanti Mines' operational zone, now faces imminent danger due to the encroachment by these illegal miners.

Several power pylons that support the regional power grid have already been compromised, sparking fears of possible outages that could impact Konongo and its surrounding communities.

Despite efforts by the mine's security task force to curb illegal mining operations, the problem persists.

The mining company has expressed frustration, citing unsuccessful attempts to enlist support from local security bodies, including the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC), and the Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC), to address the growing threat.

Tensions recently escalated when armed assailants attacked the mine’s security personnel, injuring staff and damaging property.

This violent encounter underscores the ongoing struggle to protect both the mine’s operations and the region’s power infrastructure from further damage.

With intelligence reports suggesting the illegal miners were planning another attack on Thursday, October 10, the mining company is bracing for another potential clash between its security forces and the galamseyers. The situation poses a continued threat not only to the mine but also to the stability of power supply in the affected regions.