Ashanti Regional Security Council Restores Calm At Konongo

The Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC), headed by the regional Minister, Mr. S.K. Boafo, last Wednesday moved to the Asante Akim North district capital to ensure peace and order in the mining town of Konongo.

The move followed weeks of agitation by a section of the concerned youth of the town, which calls itself "Members of Parliament" which was in confrontation with management of Talos Ghana Mining company. The youth claim that the mining company has no proper title to the concession.

REGSEC encouraged the concerned parties (youth and management of Talos) to enter into proper negotiation with the chief of the town as to the absorption of the youth in employment as part of their (Talos') social responsibility.

The decision follows an interaction with the youth leaders and management of the mining company after hours of deliberations.

The Police Commander, ACP, Mr. Ofosu Mensah Gyeabour advised the youth to observe due processes of the law in their agitations to ensure their interests.

Captain Kofi Arthur, Commanding Officer of 4th Battalion warned against any acts of lawlessness, which might push the REGSEC into any form of aggression against the youth who took the law into their hands.

The Chronicle has sighted the lease, which gives Talos the exclusive right to operate on the concession.

Talos, according to the document, which was granted on December 11, 2002, would operate there for eight years with 10% shares going to the government while 30% and 60% go to Talos and its partners respectively.

Mr. B.B. Appiah, a director of the company confided in The Chronicle that, Talos would employ more hands as soon as the area had been cleared for operation.