Darkokrom residents demand justice after deadly clash with suspected galamseyers

Residents of Darkokrom in the Atiwa East District of the Eastern Region are demanding justice following a violent clash with suspected illegal miners, popularly known as galamseyers, which claimed the life of a farmer and left several others with gunshot wounds.

The deceased, identified as 34-year-old Edwine Atteh Djaba, was allegedly beaten to death during the confrontation.

A 76-year-old resident, Samuel Nartay Dapaah, and several others also sustained gunshot wounds.

According to a report by adomonline.com on July 9, 2026, the violence was triggered by longstanding tensions over illegal mining activities in the community.

Residents accuse the miners of destroying farmlands, polluting water bodies and threatening their livelihoods.

Family members of the deceased and one of the injured victims have appealed to the authorities to investigate the incident thoroughly and prosecute those responsible.

They also called on the government and security agencies to deploy personnel to the area to prevent further violence and protect residents from the effects of illegal mining.

Manso Tontokrom residents deny mining pit collapse

Darkokrom community spokesperson Doku Peter said the activities of the suspected galamseyers have caused extensive damage to farms, particularly cocoa, plantain and cassava plantations, depriving many families of their source of income.

"The illegal miners have destroyed our cocoa, plantain and cassava farms. They have polluted the streams we rely on for drinking water and have made life unbearable for the people of Darkokrom," the report stated.

He further alleged that the miners had abandoned several uncovered pits across the community, posing a significant safety risk.

"They have left uncovered pits all over the community, putting the lives of residents, especially children, at risk. We are appealing to the Inspector-General of Police and all security agencies to intervene immediately and stop these illegal mining activities," the report stated.

The Ghana Police Service has not yet commented publicly on the incident.

MRA/BAI

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