Lands Minister Revokes Adamus Resources Mining Leases Over ‘Galamsey’ Violations
Minerals Commission report cites illegal subcontracting, unapproved operations, and Chinese involvement
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources has revoked the mining leases of Adamus Resources Limited covering the Akango, Salman, and Nkroful concessions, citing “deliberate and grave” breaches of Ghana’s mining laws.
The decision follows a damning investigation by the Minerals Commission which confirmed unauthorized and illegal mining activities on the company’s concessions.
“Fundamental Violations” Uncovered
According to the Communications Directorate of the Ministry, the Minerals Commission’s report, backed by documentary and pictorial evidence, found that:
1. Illegal subcontracting: Adamus unlawfully sub-contracted mining operations without mandatory ministerial consent required under Section 14 of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703).
2. No approved plans: Mining was carried out without approved operating plans or valid permits from the Chief Inspector of Mines, breaching LI 2182.
3. Regulatory breaches: The company failed to secure Environmental Protection Authority approvals mandated by Section 18 of Act 703.
4. Foreign involvement: Chinese nationals were illegally engaged in mining activities — “galamsey” — on the concessions, violating Section 99(5) of the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 995).
5. *Environmental damage*: Operations were “substandard,” conducted outside designated areas, and caused “significant environmental degradation,” threatening water bodies, public health, and livelihoods.
“Immediate Revocation Warranted”
“In view of the gravity and deliberate nature of these breaches, the Minister, upon the advice of the Minerals Commission, has determined that immediate revocation of the mineral rights is warranted in the public interest,” the Ministry said.
The revocation targets cases where mineral rights are “being used to facilitate illegal mining activities or where statutory requirements have been fundamentally violated.”
Criminal Charges Possible
The Ministry stressed that the revocation is “without prejudice to any criminal charges” that may be brought against Adamus Resources Limited and its directors under Act 995.
It also assured that steps will be taken to “safeguard the lawful jobs and livelihoods of workers affected” and that “appropriate measures” will be announced soon.
Gov’t: Zero Tolerance for Galamsey
“The Ministry reiterates Government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources and will continue to take decisive action against all forms of illegal mining,” the statement concluded.
Background
Adamus Resources Limited, a gold mining company, operates in Ghana’s Western Region. The revocation of the Akango, Salman, and Nkroful leases marks one of the most high-profile sanctions against a licensed mining firm in recent years.
The Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) and its 2019 amendment empower the Minister to revoke leases where holders fail to comply with legal obligations or engage in practices harmful to the public interest.
