At least seven people have been killed in a clash with soldiers at a mine in Ghana’s central Ashanti region, according to the military.

The Ghana Armed Forces said about 60 illegal miners, some armed with “pump action guns,” had entered a mine run by global company AngloGold Ashanti. When the miners were intercepted, they reportedly fired at the soldiers, who then “retaliated in self-defense.” This led to several deaths and injuries, the army said in a statement.

A representative for the miners denied that they were armed during the clash.

Protests in Obuasi After the Incident

Following news of the killings, protests broke out in Obuasi town. Angry residents set fire to several buses and at least three vehicles, along with other equipment owned by AngloGold Ashanti. The situation led to heightened tensions in the area.

In response, President John Mahama ordered an investigation into the matter, saying that anyone found guilty of unlawful actions would be held accountable. A statement from the presidency later confirmed that eight people had died in the incident.

Government’s Response and Company’s Role

The government has instructed AngloGold Ashanti to cover medical expenses for the injured and the burial costs for the victims. Security forces have been deployed to restore peace to the area.

The company said the situation had calmed down and that it was cooperating with authorities. It emphasized its concern for the safety and health of its employees and local communities affected by the violence.

Kofi Adams, the local chairman of the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners, said the violence was “unprecedented.” He reported that nine people had died and 14 were severely injured, adding that the reasons for the incident were unclear. In the past, he said, warning shots had been fired to scare off intruders. He also denied that the miners had been armed, as claimed by the military.

The army maintains that the miners were armed with locally-made rifles, pump action guns, and other weapons, stating that they had a duty to protect themselves, civilians, and property, even if it meant using deadly force.

Tensions Between Mining Communities and AngloGold Ashanti

Tensions have been rising between AngloGold Ashanti and local residents. Many accuse the company of exploiting the country’s mineral resources without doing enough to support local development or create jobs. Some local mining groups have been asking for some of the company’s mining concessions. However, AngloGold Ashanti says it has contributed significantly to the local communities.

In the wake of the violence, some schools built and managed by the company in the area have closed for two days.

A Bigger Problem: Small-Scale Mining and Environmental Damage

This incident is just the latest in a series of conflicts between security forces and mining communities in Ghana, which have worsened amid the country’s current economic crisis. Ghana is facing its worst economic situation in decades, with high public debt, inflation, and rising unemployment.

This economic crisis has led to an increase in small-scale mining, including illegal mining activities that are causing severe environmental damage.