Ministry of Lands Declares Activity Of Akonta Mining In Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve Illegal

The Minister for Lands and Natural resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor has declared illegal the activities of Akonta Mining Limited in the Tano Namiri Forest Reserve in the Amenfi West Municipality in the Western Region.

In a statement, the Ministry noted that the company which is owned by Bernard Antwi Boasiako, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has a permit to operate a mining lease in some parts of Samreboi outside the forest reserve.

However, it said the company has no mineral rights over the Tano Nimiri Forest reserve where it is reportedly operating.

It added that although the company has applied for a mining lease in the Tano Nimiri forest reserve, the request has not been granted or otherwise “determined”.

“Accordingly, the alleged activity being undertaken by the company in the forest is illegal”, the Ministry declared.

It further charged the Forestry Commission to resist the operation of the company in the forest and take the necessary action against persons found culpable.

Source: opemsuo.com/Hajara Fuseini