The Minerals Commission has appointed a six-member caretaker team to oversee the operations of the FGR Bogoso and Prestea mines, following the termination of the company’s mining leases.
The government’s decision, announced on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, comes after a thorough review by the Minerals Commission and a Ministerial Committee, which uncovered significant violations in the company’s operations.
This action was taken after extensive consultations with all relevant stakeholders, highlighting the government’s commitment to ensuring compliance within the mining sector.
Lands Minister Samuel Abu Jinapor detailed that the previous operators had been warned in August 2023 for multiple violations related to their mining activities.
Despite these warnings and advice from the Minerals Commission to rectify the issues, the company failed to comply.
In light of these findings, the government is now tasked with managing the Bogoso-Prestea Mine until a new investor is identified, emphasizing the urgency of restoring proper oversight in the region.
In a statement, Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Martin Ayisi, confirmed that the caretaker team will “immediately oversee the day-to-day operations of the mine.”
The appointed team will work alongside the regional manager and include senior officers and representatives from the workers’ union.
To ensure security at the site, military personnel will remain present, safeguarding the mine’s assets during this transitional period.
Meanwhile, Blue Gold Bogoso Prestea Limited has challenged the government’s decision, asserting the legitimacy of its operations and indicating plans to contest the termination notice.
