Serious allegations have emerged in Ghana’s Western Region, with Heath Goldfields Limited accused of violating provisions of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) by allegedly permitting illegal miners to operate within restricted sections of the Prestea Underground Mine.
At the centre of the controversy is the company’s Managing Director, Patrick Appiah Mensah, who is reported to have allowed access to portions of the underground concession in the Prestea-Bogoso enclave without the required ministerial approval.
A widely circulated video is said to show the MD in discussion with the miners, during which he allegedly acknowledges releasing parts of the underground mine for their activities—an action critics say could amount to a breach of Section 14 of Act 703.
The law clearly stipulates that any transfer, assignment, or subcontracting of mineral rights or operational control must receive prior approval from the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources. However, sources claim no such approval has been granted in this case. Read Also: Trust Fund Expands Access Through Awareness Campaign
The situation has raised concern among regulators and industry observers, especially as some of the miners involved reportedly interpret the arrangement as a “green light” to continue operations despite warnings from oversight bodies.
Experts warn that the affected underground zones are highly sensitive, requiring strict engineering controls. Unauthorized activity in such areas could disrupt ventilation systems, increase the risk of toxic gas exposure, and weaken structural integrity across connected mine levels.
Regulatory agencies, including the Minerals Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency, are said to be closely monitoring developments amid fears of safety and environmental breaches. http://www.ghanaweb.com
The controversy also brings renewed attention to earlier compliance issues. The same underground sections were part of a 120-day remediation directive issued on June 23, 2025, requiring corrective action in identified high-risk zones.
Previous operators such as Golden Star Resources and Future Global Resources had maintained strict controls over access to these areas, making the current allegations particularly alarming.
Within Prestea, reactions remain divided. While some residents see informal mining as a vital source of income, others warn it undermines regulatory authority and poses serious safety risks.
Civil society groups are calling for an immediate investigation to establish the facts and determine whether the law has indeed been breached.
Heath Goldfields Limited has yet to respond publicly, but pressure continues to mount for clarity and accountability over the alleged unauthorized underground operations.
