The Kumasi High Court has adjourned a high-profile illegal mining case involving the Paramount Chief of Twifo Atti-Morkwa, Oseadeayo Kwasi Kenin IV, to 28 October 2024.
The case centers on allegations that the chief and his associates engaged in unauthorized mining activities on a licensed concession belonging to Kadesh Mining Enterprise.
Lawyers representing Kadesh Mining argue that the defendants, including the chief’s linguist and foreign collaborators, unlawfully mined over 85% of their 14.73-acre concession.
The plaintiffs are seeking recovery of GH¢15 million worth of gold allegedly mined by the defendants, along with GH¢20 million in general damages.
At the heart of the latest court proceedings is a jurisdictional dispute. The defendants have filed a motion requesting the matter be referred to the Chief Justice to determine whether it should be heard in Kumasi or Cape Coast, given that most of the defendants reside in Twifo Praso.
However, counsel for Kadesh Mining, Hansen Kwadwo Koduah, contended that the Kumasi High Court has jurisdiction to hear the matter, expressing concerns over the safety of his clients if the case is transferred to Cape Coast.
The defense lawyer countered by insisting that the security situation in Cape Coast is adequate and requested that the Chief Justice decides on the appropriate forum.
Meanwhile, trial judge His Lordship Samuel Faraday Johnson verbally ordered the defendants to stay off the disputed concession until the court made a final determination on an interlocutory injunction filed by the plaintiffs.
The court will reconvene on October 28 to decide whether the matter will continue in Kumasi or be referred to the Chief Justice for reassignment.
SOURCE: DAILY MAIL GH
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