The Birim Central MCE, Solomon Kusi Brako, has firmly denied allegations of extorting GH₵15,000 from illegal miners operating in Akyem Oda.

Reports had suggested that the Municipal Chief Executive demanded payment from miners before releasing seized excavators. However, addressing the media, Mr. Brako dismissed the claims as “false, baseless, and unfounded.”

He clarified that the payments were legitimate fines imposed on small-scale miners who operated without official permits within the tributaries of Great Consolidated Diamonds Ghana Limited (GCDGL).

“According to the fee-fixing resolution, any business operating without a permit must pay a fine. Our Municipal Finance Officer told the miners to pay GH₵15,000 to the Assembly, not to me,” Mr. Brako explained.

He further provided official receipts to prove that all payments went directly into the Assembly’s coffers, emphasizing transparency in the process.

The Birim Central MCE also urged the public to verify facts before spreading accusations, noting that misinformation could damage reputations and hinder development efforts.

Mr. Brako highlighted the Assembly’s ongoing fight against illegal mining (galamsey) in the area. He recounted multiple operations led by the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) to seize excavators, dismantle Changfan machines, and stop mining activities along the Birim River.

“We’ve made several arrests and taken strict measures to restore the Birim River to its natural state. I call on residents to support these efforts so we can end galamsey once and for all,” he added.

The MCE reaffirmed his commitment to protecting the environment and ensuring that lawful mining practices prevail in the Birim Central Municipality.