Suspected cyanide leak in water sources triggers probe in Amansie West

A suspected cyanide contamination in local water sources has prompted authorities in the Amansie West District to launch an investigation and mobilise urgent support from government and community stakeholders.

District Coordinating Director Thomas Okrah Kwame confirmed that the chemical, believed to have been smuggled into the area for illegal mining, poses serious health and environmental dangers.

He stressed that cyanide use in mining is illegal in Ghana, describing the substance as a “no-go area” and warning that its presence is alarming and unacceptable.

An emergency stakeholder meeting brought together officials from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the District Security Council (DISEC), the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Asanko Gold Mines, and the Ghana National Small-Scale Miners Association to assess the risks and plan immediate containment measures.

The response follows a joint police and immigration operation two weeks earlier, which led to the arrest of 22 Burkinabè nationals suspected of smuggling cyanide into nearby communities.

Laboratory tests confirmed the seized substances were cyanide, likely intended for use in illegal gold mining.

EPA officials warned that even minimal traces of cyanide in water can be dangerous to both humans and animals.

Experts from Asanko Gold Mines noted that licensed mining companies follow strict safety protocols, unlike illegal miners who handle such chemicals carelessly.

Traditional leaders have also expressed concern.

A joint EPA–NADMO–DISEC team has already begun visiting suspected contamination sites and plans to expand inspections across the entire district. Authorities are urging residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activities.

Okrah Kwame appealed to the public that “If you see something, say something. When people report, DISEC will take it up and apply the appropriate sanctions”.