Community Cries Out Over Alleged Illegal Chinese Mining In Gambia Alhassan.

Chiefs, youth, and residents of Gambia Alhassan in the Prestea Huni-Valley Municipality are calling on mining sector stakeholders to intervene over what they describe as years of illegal mining activities by Chinese mining firm Longshine Mining Limited.

According to the community, the company has allegedly taken over farmlands for mining without compensation, consultation, or developmental support for affected residents.

At a media briefing to express their frustrations, youth leader Richmond Andoh Kwaw accused the mining operators of disregarding local laws and community rights.

He stated that the company has operated in the area for more than four years without showing legal mining permits, environmental impact assessment documents, or engaging the community through formal consultations.

Kwaw further lamented that despite years of mineral extraction, Gambia Alhassan has not benefited from any meaningful infrastructure development or economic improvement.

Following persistent complaints by residents, some Chinese nationals linked to the mining operations have reportedly been arrested.

The Chief of Gambia Alhassan, Nana Tibu, welcomed the arrests but cautioned regulatory authorities against allowing illegal mining activities to continue in the community.

Opinion leaders in the area have also pledged to remain vigilant in protecting community lands from further unauthorized exploitation.

Story by Nana Fynn@W/R.