‘I’m ready to swear with the Bible, schnapps and eggs that I don’t do galamsey’ – Tanoso Ankobeahene

Nana Okofo Dartey Amoako Atta, the Tanoso Traditional Council's Ankobeahene, has vehemently denied claims of his involvement in illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey. The traditional leader was apprehended by the Tanoso Police Command on suspicion of being linked to unlawful mining activities or cooperating with such activities in the region.

Speaking on Adom FM's Dwaso Nsem morning program, Nana Okofo Dartey Amoako Atta emphatically denied the allegations, stating that he is a devoted Methodist who adheres to his beliefs. When questioned about the circumstances leading to the accusations, he revealed that he had learned of an individual who had arrived in Tanoso to conduct an interview, only to later make controversial remarks about the matter.

The person in question, Nana Okofo Dartey Amoako Atta emphasized, is not a native of Tanoso but hails from Susaso, a neighboring community. He also pointed out that the individual is not a local Tanoso resident but a visitor from Susaso. The Ankobeahene's denial of involvement in galamsey follows the arrest of two individuals, Nana Amoako Atta (popularly known as Aseda Ben) and Alhassan Adamu, the Afrisipa Krom Youth Chairman, in connection with alleged involvement or cooperation with illegal mining activities in Tanoso, Ahafo Region.

The suspects are suspected of being linked to galamsey activities at Adengo/Ponwaakrom and other locations where mining operations have reportedly damaged farmlands, forests, and water bodies. The police have called upon residents to aid their anti-galamsey efforts by sharing pertinent information with the relevant authorities.