Nkawie (Ash), March 04, – A 40-year-old farmer, Akwasi Acheampong, has been fined GHS 120,000 by the Nkawie Circuit Court in the Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality for engaging in illegal mining at Manso Moseaso.
Acheampong pleaded not guilty but was found guilty after a full trial. The court ruled that, in default of paying the fine, he would serve a 15-year prison term.
The case facts, presented by ASP Frank Acheampong before Mr Robert Addo, indicated that the complainant, Mr Yaw Amponsah, a teacher residing in Moseaso, discovered the accused mining illegally on his farm at Mmora on July 7, 2023, using a Liugong excavator and a washing plant.
When questioned, Acheampong claimed he had permission from Mr Paul Akuoko Asare, the head of his family, arguing that the land belonged to the family. The incident was reported to Essuowin Police, leading to the arrest of both the farmer and the family head.
In their caution statements, Acheampong admitted to the illegal mining, while the family head denied authorizing the act. After further investigation, both were charged. During trial, the family head pleaded not guilty to abetment of crime and was ultimately acquitted and discharged.
GHBUSS
March 04, 2026
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