The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the Nzema East Municipality in the Western Region, Hon. Herbert Kuah Dickson, has condemned the violent clash between the youth of Adelekezo, a farming community near Axim, and JAS Mining Company, and has called on residents to remain calm as investigations commence.
The incident, which occurred over the weekend, resulted in the death of a 13-year-old boy, the burning of vehicles, excavators, and other valuable properties belonging to the company, as well as several injuries.
In an official press release issued and signed on Monday, December 15, 2025, Hon. Kuah Dickson assured residents of the Assembly’s commitment to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the clash and to work towards an amicable resolution aimed at restoring peace and order.
The MCE strongly condemned the actions of both parties and stressed that the Assembly would not shield anyone found to have orchestrated or contributed to the violence, including the shooting that led to the death of the young boy.
According to the release, the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC), led by the MCE, during a routine visit to Adelekezo in September 2025, arrested some Chinese nationals who were leaving the community.
Following interrogation by security operatives in Nzema East, it was confirmed that JAS Mining Company possessed valid legal documentation as a large-scale concession mining company, with its operations duly registered with the Minerals Commission and other relevant regulatory bodies.
The release further stated that during his first engagement with the community on the day of the arrest, the MCE expressed dissatisfaction with the elders and residents for failing to report the presence and activities of the company when the MUSEC team earlier visited the community in September 2025.
It was also established that, at the time of the MUSEC engagement and arrest in September 2025, the company had not commenced active mining operations.
Since the arrest of the workers, the Assembly has engaged JAS Mining Company to submit a roadmap outlining its operational activities, leading up to the recent unfortunate incident.
The Assembly has commenced a full investigation into the cause of the clash to help resolve the prevailing tension between the company and the community.
It has also assured that proper stakeholder engagement will be facilitated to promote peace, harmony, and coexistence.
Where necessary, the Assembly will ensure that liability is determined and appropriate compensation provided for loss of life, injuries, and other casualties.
The Nzema East Municipal Assembly has appealed to the general public to remain calm while investigations are conducted in a fair and impartial manner.
The Assembly also extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved family and wished all injured persons a speedy recovery, assuring the public that it will provide updates on the outcome of the investigations and the way forward regarding the activities of the company.
Source: myxyzonline.com
