The Paramount Chief of the Atti-Morkwa Traditional Area in the Central Region, Oseadeeyo Kwesi Kennin IV, is facing increased legal pressure over galamsey operations. Already embroiled in a lawsuit for alleged involvement in illegal mining, the Chief has been hit with a fresh lawsuit filed by nine additional mining companies.
These companies accuse the Chief of engaging in illegal mining activities on their concessions, specifically alleging trespassing on their mining lands. This intensifies the legal troubles the Chief already faces. Previously, Oseadeeyo Kwesi Kennin IV was sued by Kadesh Mining Enterprise for allegedly conducting unauthorized mining operations on their concession, also located in the Central Region. This new lawsuit compounds his ongoing legal battles.
The nine mining companies are seeking a court order to restrain the Chief and his workers from invading their concessions. Additionally, they request that the court order the restoration and reclamation of areas already mined.
The presiding judge, His Lordship Samuel Faraday Johnson, on Wednesday October 23 adjourned the hearing to October 28, 2024. The judge indicated that he awaits a ruling from the Kumasi High Court regarding jurisdiction in the case between Kadesh Mining Enterprise and the Paramount Chief.