Outrage Boils Over as Soldiers Assault Innocent Teachers in Mining Raid”

The Ghana National Association of Teachers, GNAT, in the Wassa West District, is condemning the incident as barbaric, inhumane and unjustifiable, following what it says was an unprovoked attack on innocent educators.

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of April 30, was disclosed at a press conference addressed by District Chairman Daniel Mensah.

According to GNAT, the victims three teachers of Adiewoso M/A Basic School, including the headmaster, Ansah Acheampong, and the husband of a female teacher were reportedly beaten by soldiers believed to be from the 2nd Battalion infantry at Apremdo-Takoradi.

The soldiers had been deployed to clamp down on illegal mining activities Ghana rubber estate limited’s plantation (GREL) near the community. However, GNAT insists the operation degenerated into indiscriminate violence against residents, including teachers who had no involvement in the mining activities.

The Association says despite identifying themselves with official GNAT identity cards, the teachers were forced to lie on the ground, whipped repeatedly, and threatened at gunpoint.

Speaking at the press conference, District Chairman Daniel Mensah described the assault as unacceptable and called for swift justice.

The Headmaster, Ansah Acheampong, who was among those assaulted, recounted his ordeal, saying the experience has left him traumatized and in pain.

Executive members of GNAT also expressed grave concern, warning that the incident raises serious questions about the safety of teachers posted to communities affected by illegal mining operations.

GNAT says the victims have since reported the matter to the police, received medical attention, and are assisting with ongoing investigations.

The Association is now calling on the Ministries of Interior and Defence, the Ghana Armed Forces, the Police Service, and the management of the rubber company involved to launch a full-scale investigation and bring the perpetrators to book.

It is also urging the Ghana Education Service to grant the affected teachers at least three weeks off duty to allow for psychological recovery, and to provide counseling support.

GNAT has further issued a two-week ultimatum to authorities, warning that it will take further action if justice is not served.

While acknowledging the swift response of the member of parliament for Tarkwa Issah Salifu Taylor and the municipal chief executive Ebenezer Cobbinah who visited the victims, the Association insists that accountability must prevail.

The incident has reignited concerns about the conduct of security operations in mining communities and the growing risks faced by public servants working in such volatile environments.
Nana Esi Brew Monney