Correspondence from the Eastern Region

The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Birim Central, Solomon Kusi Brako, has vehemently denied allegations of extorting GHC15,000 from miners.

Solomon Brako clarified that the sum in question represented legitimate fines imposed on unlicensed small-scale miners, with comprehensive receipts proving the payments were made directly into the Municipal Assembly's coffers.

The MCE's refutation comes in response to claims made by Akyem Oda MP Alexander Kwasi Acquah and other individuals, who accused Solomon Brako of demanding payments to release seized excavators and facilitating illegal operations.

At a news conference, Solomon Brako explained that the fines were levied against small-scale miners found operating without due permits within the tributary of Great Consolidated Diamonds Ghana Limited (GCDGL) in Akyem Oda.

He stressed the transparency of the transactions, presenting official receipts to substantiate his assertion that the funds were properly channelled into the Assembly's revenue.

Emphasising his administration's unwavering commitment to responsible mining practices and strict adherence to the law, the MCE recounted numerous instances where he, alongside the Municipal Security Council, has led vigorous crackdowns on illegal mining (galamsey) activities along the Birim River in Akyem Oda.

These operations have resulted in the seizure of excavators and control boards and the burning of Changfan machines and other illicit mining equipment.

Solomon Kusi Brako urged the public to exercise caution and verify facts before making serious accusations, highlighting the critical importance of accuracy and fairness in public discourse.

He called on residents to rally behind his efforts, promising swift and decisive action to halt illegal activities and to restore the Birim River to its natural, pristine state.

Scenes from Accra Ridge Hospital after news of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings' death