Chinese National, Driver Shot in Illegal Mining Attack
A Chinese national and his Ghanaian driver were shot dead on July 7, 2025, in a suspected robbery at an illegal mining site in Subri-Nkwanta, Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipality, Western North Region. The attack occurred as they transported gold concentrate, known as “black,” from a galamsey site.
Eyewitnesses reported that unknown gunmen ambushed the victims, opened fire without warning, and fled with the gold into nearby forests. A third person, believed to be their security officer, was injured and is receiving treatment at Anhwiaso Community Hospital. The Assembly Member for Kojina Electoral Area, Frank Addae, alerted Bibiani Police, who moved the bodies to a morgue for autopsy.
Police are investigating the incident as a possible robbery but are also exploring links to tensions between rival galamsey groups over land and mining territories. The victims’ identities remain undisclosed, pending further investigation. Residents expressed fear, noting frequent gunshots and rising violence in the community due to illegal mining activities.
The shooting follows a pattern of violence at galamsey sites, with community members reporting ongoing dangers. In January 2025, a similar incident at AngloGold Ashanti’s Obuasi mine saw seven to nine illegal miners killed by soldiers, highlighting the risks of unregulated mining. Subri-Nkwanta locals urged authorities to address the growing insecurity.
Police are intensifying efforts to apprehend the gunmen and uncover the motive. The incident underscores Ghana’s struggle with illegal mining, which fuels violence, environmental damage, and community unrest, as authorities face pressure to enforce laws and restore safety.