The Tetretem Royal Family of Duayaw-Nkwanta has accused the Tano North Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of wrongfully issuing mining permits to illegal miners, thereby fuelling galamsey activities on the Duayaw-Nkwanta Stool Lands. 

The family says the move has led to environmental degradation and poses a threat to the peace of the area.

According to a statement issued by Nana Asamaa Kofi Ofori Adu, the family condemned the MCE’s actions and described them as unlawful and irresponsible. 

“The Tano North Municipal Assembly issued Business Operating Licences to CAKROB Limited without the consent of the Ghana Minerals Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency,” the statement said.

The family further alleged that the MCE, in collaboration with some sub-chiefs, including Nana Boakye II and Nana Nsowaa Diawuo Kokroko, aided foreigners to undertake galamsey operations. 

“Chinese, Senegalese and Guinean nationals are actively involved in mining activities in Adagyamem,” the family claimed.

The statement noted that during the administration of the late Nana Blakey Tromo III, there were no illegal mining activities in the area.

“Newmont Mining Company was the only officially approved operator then,” it emphasised.

The royal family has appealed to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and the regional authorities to take immediate action. 

“We are calling for Otumfuo’s intervention to prevent violence and restore sanity to the Duayaw-Nkwanta Traditional Area,” it concluded.