The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources has ordered the immediate revocation of three mining leases belonging to Adamus Resources Limited following findings of widespread illegal mining activities and breaches of Ghana’s mining regulations. The affected concessions include Akango, Salman, and Nkroful.
The decision follows investigative reports from the Minerals Commission that confirmed multiple violations of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), as well as subsequent amendments and regulatory provisions.
According to the report, Adamus Resources Limited engaged in several unauthorised activities, including subcontracting mining operations without ministerial approval, a requirement under Section 14 of Act 703.
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The company was also found to have operated without approved mining plans or valid permits from the Chief Inspector of Mines, in breach of Regulation 8(1) of the Minerals and Mining (Health, Safety and Technical) Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2182).
Additionally, the report cited failure to secure Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) approvals as required by law.
One of the most serious findings involved the alleged involvement of foreign nationals in illegal mining activities on the concessions, in violation of Section 99(5)(a) and (b) of the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 995).
The investigation further revealed that mining operations were conducted outside designated areas and without adherence to approved site plans, resulting in significant environmental damage, including land degradation and threats to nearby water bodies and community livelihoods.
A statement by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources indicated it acted on the recommendation of the Minerals Commission under Section 100(2) of Act 703 to revoke the mining rights in the public interest, citing the severity and deliberate nature of the breaches.
The Ministry emphasized that the decision is aimed at curbing illegal mining activities and ensuring strict compliance with Ghana’s mining laws, particularly in the fight against galamsey.
It also noted that the revocation does not preclude possible criminal prosecution of Adamus Resources Limited, its directors, and management under Act 995.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources assured that steps will be taken to safeguard the jobs and livelihoods of workers affected by the decision, with further measures expected to be announced in due course.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to protecting Ghana’s natural resources and assured it will continue to take decisive action against illegal mining and environmental degradation across the country.