Municipal Chief Executive Officer (MCE), Kwaku Kyei Baffour, is said to have clashed with Kwasi Aboagye, an anti-galamsey activist based in Obuasi, regarding the arrest of illegal miners within the municipality.
As reported by the Chronicle Newspaper on July 31, 2023, the confrontation took place after the arrest of three Chinese nationals and two Ghanaians who were engaged in illegal mining activities near Bekwai, specifically at Achiase.
According to the report, Kwesi Aboagye, who also serves as the President of the Adansi Progressive Association (APA), led a team of personnel from Obuasi, including policemen and National Investigation Bureau (NIB) officers, in an operation that resulted in the apprehension of the illegal miners.
Nevertheless, when confronted by individuals claiming to be elders representing the Omanhene of Bekwai and subsequently a Taskforce from the Bekwai Municipal Assembly, Aboagye declined to release the detained Chinese nationals, citing concerns about the authorities’ dedication to effectively tackling illegal mining.
The report mentioned that Aboagye pointed out the authorities’ inaction despite the extensive environmental degradation and appeals from local residents, which prompted him to take action and intervene in the situation.
In response to the said allegations on Angel FM, the MCE Kwaku Kyei Baffour refuted Aboagye’s claims, asserting that his Taskforce was conducting a routine check to drive away the Chinese miners when they encountered him coincidentally.
The MCE is reported to have accused the anti-galamsey crusader of disrespect, discrimination, and extorting money from illegal miners.
The confrontation, according to the report, escalated as both parties exchanged harsh words on live radio.
The MCE threatened to have Aboagye arrested by the police for not seeking permission from authorities before making the arrests of the said illegal miners.
“Aboagye doesn’t respect; if he really respects, he would have consulted the police administration and my office before making those arrests. You don’t know your job. You wouldn’t have said this if you have brains. I’ll make the police commander invite you, Crazy guy.
“I am going to the Police Commander; I’ll let him be arrested. Why didn’t you seek permission from authorities before going on with such an activity? Is Aboagye credible? Foolish Aboagye,” the Chronicle quoted the MCE to have said on air.
In turn, Aboagye is also alleged to have retaliated, calling the MCE “crazy” and urging President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to dismiss him for allegedly condoning illegal mining activities in the area.
“You are also a crazy MCE. What have been your contributions? President Akufo-Addo must sack you.”