Residents of Kwaakyewaso, a suburb of Konongo Odumasi in the Ashanti Region, have petitioned the Ghana Police Service over alleged illegal mining activities taking place within a residential area.
In a letter dated March 19, 2026, and addressed to the Konongo District Police Commander, the residents raised concerns about ongoing underground excavation believed to be linked to galamsey operations.
According to the petition, a man identified as Kwame Agyekum, together with alleged collaborators Pastor Bright Anokye and Kwasi Ketewa, also known as Obed, is reportedly undertaking the activity at a location known as Nana Ayaase in Kwaakyewaso. The area is described as densely populated with residential buildings.
The residents claim the suspected miners are operating underground beneath houses, raising fears of possible structural collapse. They warned that such activities could lead to loss of lives and destruction of property if not halted immediately.
The petition referenced a recent incident in the Odumasi township where a similar occurrence reportedly led to the death of a pregnant woman. It also cited warnings from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), which has previously cautioned that parts of the town remain vulnerable due to past underground mining activities.
Residents expressed strong dissatisfaction and concern over the situation, noting that security agencies had in the past intervened to halt similar operations in the area due to the risks posed to the community.
They are therefore calling on the police to urgently intervene and prevent any further excavation. The petition has also been copied to several authorities, including the Ashanti Regional Minister, traditional leaders, the Municipal Chief Executive, security agencies, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the media.
The residents say they are relying on swift action from authorities to avert a potential disaster and ensure the safety of lives and property in the community.
