The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has interdicted the Chief Inspector of Mines following the Bogoso explosion.
According to a statement dated January 21, 2022 the interdiction takes effect immediately pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation into the tragic events which took place at Appiate near Bogoso.
In explaining the reason behind the interdiction, the Ministry’s statement said that “pursuant to regulation 2 of the Minerals and Mining (explosives) Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2177), the Chief Inspector of Mines is the Chief Inspector of explosives, and is responsible for the supervision of the manufacture, storage, transportation, and the use of explosives for mining and mine support services”.
The Minister for Lands also shut down Maxam Company Limited located in Tarkwa.
“Further, the Hon. Minister has directed the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, with immediate effect, to suspend the registration of Maxam Company Limited with the Minerals Commission, thereby precluding the company from the manufacture, transportation and/or supply of explosives for mining operations pending the outcome of investigations into this matter”.
Meanwhile the Western Regional manager of the Commission, Isaac Mwinbellen, has stated that Maxam Company cannot be blamed for any wring doing until investigations are concluded.
The ministry took the opportunity to assure the public that the ongoing investigations will be thorough and comprehensive, and any public official found culpable will be made to face the full rigors of the law.
