Ghanaian police have arrested 42 persons after demonstrations in Accra, the capital, escalated into violent clashes between protesters and authorities.
The three-day protest organised by Democracy Hub, a civil advocacy group, began over the weekend as demonstrators took to the streets to denounce the government’s handling of illegal mining, known as ‘galamsey’ in Ghana.
Named the Gold Coast in pre-colonial times, Ghana is one of the world’s gold hotspots.
The West African country is one of Africa’s largest producers of gold and ranks sixth globally.
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In 2023, four million ounces were produced, contributing around seven percent of the economy’s gross domestic product (GDP).
However, illegal small-scale mining operations have wreaked havoc on the environment, farming, cocoa production, and drinking water supplies.
Protesters marched through the streets chanting solidarity songs and carrying placards expressing frustration over environmental destruction.
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The marchers also protested an economic hardship that has persisted in the country.
On Monday, police issued a warrant for Oliver Barker-Vormawor, a prominent Democracy Hub leader, accusing him of removing the ignition key from a police vehicle and toppling crash barriers during a confrontation.
Grace Ansah-Akrofi, a spokesperson for the Ghana police, said the protesters had assembled unlawfully and clashed with officers attempting to maintain order.
The police also said they are on a manhunt for other protest leaders.
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The protests come as Ghana gears up for a presidential election in December.
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