The Ankobeahene of the Tanoso Traditional Council, Nana Okofo Dartey Amoako Atta, has vehemently denied allegations linking him to illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, asserting that his outspoken advocacy has inadvertently transformed him into a target of suspicion. This denial comes amidst a growing wave of scrutiny following his reported arrest alongside Alhassan Adamu, identified as the Afrisipa Krom Youth Chairman. Nana Amoako Atta stated that his consistent public condemnation of galamsey has positioned him as a key figure in the fight against the practice, a stance he describes as crucial to protecting the environment and the livelihoods of local communities. His comments follow a reported incident where members of the traditional council visited the police station to inquire about an arrested miner, who was subsequently informed that a court date would be communicated when the magistrate returned. Nana Amoako Atta explained that the initial misinterpretation of his visits – the alleged removal of mining equipment to the palace – served as the basis for the suspicions surrounding his involvement. He recounted a visit on Sunday where seized equipment was discovered abandoned in the bush, a detail he insisted was a consequence of his proactive efforts to monitor activities and secure the region. The Kyidomhene attempted to contact the police commander to determine the appropriate course of action regarding the items, but the commander was unavailable, leading to a directive to move the equipment to the palace for safekeeping. Nana Amoako Atta further elaborated that the equipment was transported by a member of the Kyidomhene’s staff, the Aboboyaa, and he personally retrieved the remaining items to return them to the palace. He then received a call from the police commander, who questioned why the items had been taken to the palace instead of the police station, prompting Nana Amoako Atta to explain that the police commander could not be reached, thus necessitating the palace transfer. He insisted that the equipment was moved to protect the property of the traditional council and to prevent potential misuse. Nana Amoako Atta emphasized that his role as the traditional council’s spokesperson on galamsey is not a component of illegal mining, emphasizing that his record of advocating against the practice speaks for itself. He further stated that he regularly visits galamsey sites, documenting his activities through photographs and videos, and his commitment to combating the menace. He added that the equipment was moved because the police commander was unreachable, and that his involvement in recovering seized mining equipment should not be misconstrued as participation in illegal mining. Nana Okofo Dartey Amoako Atta reiterated that the incident does not represent his involvement in illegal mining; rather, it is a demonstration of his unwavering dedication to protecting the environment and supporting the communities affected by the practice. He stressed that his consistent advocacy against galamsey has solidified his position as a central figure in the fight against the practice, and he believes his record provides sufficient evidence to support his claims.”}”tags”: [
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Source: Adom Online
