NAIMOS task force kills six in Manso Keniago after equipment dispute

Six people have been confirmed dead and at least 15 others sustained various injuries following a violent confrontation between residents of Manso Keniago and personnel from the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS). The clash, which occurred in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region, centered on the transportation of heavy mining equipment seized during anti-galamsey operations. While earlier reports suggested lower casualty figures, local officials and medical sources have since confirmed that the death toll has risen to six as tensions remain high in the community.

The conflict reportedly began when NAIMOS operatives attempted to drive a seized excavator through the community’s main road. Residents and traditional authorities, led by the Chief of Manso Keniago, Nana Obeng Mensah Ababio II, intervened to suggest the use of a low-bed trailer to prevent damage to the public infrastructure. According to eyewitnesses and the local Assembly Member, Hon. Charles Oduro, the situation escalated when task force members allegedly opened fire on the crowd. There are further allegations that the operatives fired shots at the chief’s vehicle and a police officer, although these specific claims are still being reviewed.

Traditional authorities have strongly rejected accounts suggesting that the task force acted in self-defense. Nana Obeng Mensah Ababio II has challenged the secretariat to release drone footage of the incident to verify their claims that residents provoked the violence. The chief maintained that his people were unarmed and only sought to protect their roads from heavy machinery damage. District Chief Executive Benjamin Marfo has confirmed the fatalities and acknowledged the severe agitation within the district, promising a thorough inquiry to ensure those responsible for the deaths are held accountable.

Residents are now calling on President John Mahama and the Inspector-General of Police to sanction an independent investigation into the use of lethal force against civilians. The community has demanded justice for the families of the deceased and support for the injured victims currently receiving treatment. While the Ashanti Regional Police Command has moved to stabilize the area, the incident has sparked a broader debate regarding the methods used by specialized task forces in mining communities and the protection of civilian lives during state operations.