There is growing tension in the Asante-Bekwai Municipality between small scale miners and the local communities over the safety of the environment and the lives of the people.

Deep uncovered pits dug by the miners have become a big danger to life and a source of discomfort to people, particularly at Abodom, Edwenease, Koniyaw and Kokotro.

The situation on Tuesday necessitated a tour of some of the mining areas by the Asante-Bekwai Municipal Police Commander, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Daniel Amoako to assess the situation.

It comes on the heels of the drowning of one Kwaku Nsiah, a 27-year old miner at Abodom.

The deceased reportedly fell into a mine pit filled with water at the weekend whilst returning home after close of work at about 1800 hours.

DSP Amoako vowed decisive action to restore sanity.

The massive destruction of the environment and pollution of water bodies could not be allowed to continue, he said.

He said those with mining licenses would have to operate within safety regulations.

The police would act in concert with the appropriate government agencies to end the impunity and lawlessness of the miners to avert possible violent clashes, he added.

He also spoke of plans to hold a meeting with owners of the mines to discuss the best way to protect lives and property and defuse the mounting tension.**