Two Injured in Shooting at Galamsey Site in Kwahu West

Two people have sustained serious gunshot wounds following a violent confrontation at an illegal small-scale mining site at Behenase, near Awiregya in the Kwahu West Municipality of the Eastern Region.

The incident reportedly occurred on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, during a dispute involving groups operating at the mining site.

Preliminary reports indicate that the confrontation was linked to disagreements over mining territory and access to gold deposits. The dispute allegedly escalated into physical violence before firearms were discharged.

Two people were struck by bullets and rushed to a nearby health facility for emergency treatment. Their current medical conditions have not been officially disclosed.

Police and municipal authorities reportedly deployed personnel to the area to restore order and prevent possible reprisal attacks.

The shooters are said to have fled the scene before security officers arrived. Police have opened an investigation to identify and arrest those responsible.

The incident has heightened concerns among residents about growing insecurity around illegal mining sites and the increasing presence of firearms among some operators.

Community leaders and farmers have also renewed calls for sustained action against illegal mining, citing the destruction of farmlands, encroachment on community property and pollution of water sources used for agricultural and domestic purposes.

Residents are urging the Kwahu West Municipal Security Council and anti-galamsey task forces to strengthen security operations in the affected communities and prevent further violence.

Authorities have yet to release detailed information about the identities of the injured persons or any suspects connected to the shooting.