MANKRAN BUASE, E/R. — Residents of Mankran Buase in the Ayensuano District of the Eastern Region have raised concerns over what they describe as the increasing incidence of illegal sand-winning activities in the community, coupled with alleged intimidation by land guards.
According to the residents, the activities are gradually destroying portions of their lands and farmlands, posing a serious threat to agriculture, the environment and their livelihoods.
Speaking to the media residents alleged that a man identified as “Gedo Pat”, from Asuboi, a community near Suhum, has invaded the area and is using the name of the Okyehene to carry out sand-winning activities.
They alleged that several farmlands have already been destroyed as a result of the activities.
The residents further claimed that affected farmers are subsequently compensated with amounts ranging between GH¢1,000 and GH¢2,000, which they say are inadequate considering the extent of damage caused to their farms and livelihoods.
They also alleged that after some community members began resisting the activities, the said “Gedo Pat” brought in land guards to intimidate residents and prevent them from opposing the sand-winning operations.
According to them, the alleged intimidation has created fear in the community, making it difficult for some residents to openly speak against the activities or access their farms.
The residents are therefore calling on the Eastern Regional Minister and the Minister for the Interior to visit the community to assess the extent of the alleged destruction and examine the potential impact on future generations if the situation is allowed to continue.
They are also appealing to the relevant authorities to investigate the allegations and take immediate steps to protect the community’s lands and farmlands.
The residents have warned that if the alleged illegal sand-winning activities are not stopped, they may embark on what they described as an “aggressive protest” to draw attention to their concerns.
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