By: Seth Opoku Agyemang,-Sunyani
The Chief of Atronie, Brempong Diawusie Nana Amponsem Darko II, has issued a strong warning against illegal mining activities, declaring that Atronie lands particularly Jinijini, will not be surrendered for destructive exploitation of Illigal mining.
The message was delivered on his behalf by his Secretary, Nana Yaw Ampofo, during his maiden visit to the Jinijini community in the Atronie Traditional Area, following the resolution of a protracted chieftaincy dispute that lasted nearly three decades and was settled by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
Addressing chiefs, opinion leaders, and residents aat Jinijini a ffarming Community at Atroniie Traditional areasin the Bono Reggiin, the Atroniehene emphasized that his visit was to engage the people, understand their concerns, and chart a path for development.
However, the focus quickly turned to rising tensions over illegal mining activities at Jinijini which is part of Atronie lands.
According to the Unit Committee Member of the area and spokesperson for the caretaker Odikro of Jinijini, Ayaba Steven, some individuals initially entered the area claiming they had permits from the Minerals Commission to prospect for gold.
Community members, however, insisted they seek approval from the rightful landowner, the Atroniehene.
He revealed that the situation escalated when another group, reportedly linked to the Dormaa Palace, stormed the area. The group allegedly engaged in violent confrontations with residents, during which gunshots were heard and several community members were assaulted.
The situation worsened when the same group reportedly returned with foreign nationals, believed to be Chinese, who arrived with equipment including drones and began prospecting and digging activities for weeks.
Attempts by residents to resist the operations allegedly led to further assaults, with some victims hospitalized.
Reacting to these developments, the Atroniehene made his position clear:
“Jinijini belongs to Atronie. No one should make any claim over this land apart from Atronie.”
He firmly rejected any external claims to the land and stressed that all engagements concerning Atronie territory must go through the appropriate traditional authority.
In a strong environmental stance, the Chief declared that Atronie prioritizes sustainable livelihoods over gold extraction.
“Atronie land will not be used for galamsey. We prefer foodstuffs to gold.
We cannot allow our water bodies and vegetation to be destroyed.”
He warned that illegal mining destroys far more than it provides, polluting water bodies, degrading fertile lands, and ultimately shortening lives through environmental and health hazards.
The Chief further called for respect among traditional authorities, urging the Dormaa leadership, led by Nana Agyemang Badu II, to refrain from making claims over Atronie lands in the interest of peace and unity.
“Atronie does not share boundary with Dormaa in this area. For the sake of peace, Dormaa should stay off Atronie lands.”
To eliminate any ambiguity, the Atroniehene outlined key boundary points covering several villages, rivers, and forest areas, reinforcing Atronie’s ownership and determination to protect its territory.
He concluded with a call for unity and vigilance among his people:
“Let us remain united and committed to protecting what belongs to us.”
The visit marks a significant step in re-establishing traditional authority and stability in Atronie after years of dispute, while also sending a clear message against illegal mining and external interference.
