Konongo: Power outages loom as illegal miners invade GRIDCo site

Illegal mining, also known as galamsey, is posing a severe threat to power supply in parts of the Ashanti and Eastern Regions, specifically in Konongo, Ashanti Region. The miners have encroached on the Northern Ashanti Mines’ concession, where GRIDCO’s substation pylons are located, endangering critical infrastructure.

A GRIDCO substation, which falls within the operational zone of Northern Ashanti Mines, is now at risk due to the illegal mining activities. The galamsey operations have already damaged several pylons, raising concerns about potential power outages in Konongo Township and the nearby communities.

Although the mine’s security task force has been working to curb the illegal mining, their efforts have been in vain. The mining company has expressed frustration, noting that attempts to collaborate with local security agencies, such as the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) and the Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC), have not yielded any significant results.

The situation escalated recently when armed individuals attacked the mine’s task force, injuring several members and causing damage to property. This ongoing conflict threatens both mining operations and power stability in the region.

Adding to the tension, the company now fears a violent confrontation on Thursday, October 10. Intelligence reports indicate that the illegal miners are planning another assault on the mine and its employees.