By Juliet Akosua Danquah
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has launched investigations into a shooting incident at Manso Keniango in the Ashanti Region that claimed four lives and left 15 others injured following a clash between residents and personnel of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS).
The incident occurred in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region, although the circumstances leading to the confrontation have yet to be established.
In a press statement issued on Friday, November 13, 2026, the Ministry described the incident as deeply unfortunate and expressed grave concern over the loss of lives and injuries sustained.
The Ministry said investigations had commenced to establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the confrontation between members of the community and NAIMOS personnel.
Ministry Expresses Concern
The Ministry extended its sympathies to the affected military personnel, civilians and bereaved families.
It indicated that the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources was deeply concerned about the development and had assured the public that every effort would be made to establish the facts surrounding the incident.
The Ministry stressed that the protection of human life remained paramount, particularly during operations within the natural resources sector.
It reiterated that all operations and engagements must be conducted in accordance with the law, professionalism and respect for human rights.
Residents Urged to Remain Calm
Against the backdrop of the fatal confrontation, the Ministry appealed to residents of Manso Keniango and surrounding communities to remain calm and exercise restraint.
It also urged the public to cooperate with the relevant authorities to ensure that the matter was handled amicably.
The incident has brought renewed attention to the safety of both security personnel and civilians during operations in mining communities.
NAIMOS has been at the forefront of the government’s intensified campaign against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, across the country.
However, the Ministry’s statement did not provide details of what triggered the clash, the identities of the deceased or the specific circumstances under which the shooting occurred.
The outcome of the investigation is expected to shed light on the incident and establish the sequence of events that resulted in the fatalities and injuries.
