Calm has been restored at Ntotroso in the Ahafo Region following an attempted security breach at the Newmont mining site on the night of Wednesday, January 8, 2025. According to a press release from the Ghana Police Service dated January 9, 2025, the incident involved an attempt by some individuals to allegedly steal gold from the mining site. The situation escalated, resulting in a confrontation with the Police.
“During the operation to contain the situation, the Police confronted the suspects, leading to the death of three persons and injuries to four others,” the release stated. The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, played a hands-on role in managing the crisis.
“The Inspector-General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, worked on the phone with the Regional Police team to engage community leaders and the youth throughout the night till this morning to stabilize the situation, and there has been no reprisal attacks or escalation of the situation in the community,” the statement added. To ensure a thorough investigation, a special team from Accra has been dispatched to Ntotroso.
“A special investigation team from Accra has been sent to the area to investigate the incident, whilst a reinforcement team has also been sent to the community to help ensure that there is peace, security, law and order,” the release noted.
The Police confirmed that the deceased victims were Muslims and assured that “the due process of the law is being followed for the bodies to be released to their families for burial later today.”
In light of the incident, the Police have urged the public to maintain composure. “We urge the public to remain calm as the Police continue to work to ensure law and order prevail,” concluded the statement signed by Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Grace Ansah-Akrofi, Director of Public Affairs.
The Ghana Police Service further reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents in the Ahafo Region as investigations continue.
Source: GraphicOnline
