By Ashiadey Dotse
The Press Secretary to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, Paa Kwasi Schandorf, has defended the government’s decision to revoke the mining lease of Adamus Resources Limited, insisting that the action is based strictly on law and not influenced by politics.
Speaking in an interview on GTV’s Current Agenda programme on Saturday, May 2, 2026, Mr Schandorf explained that the operations of Adamus Resources were found to be in breach of key provisions of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), following investigations by the Minerals Commission, the sector’s main regulator.
He said initial concerns about the company’s activities triggered a regional investigation in the Western Region, which was later followed by a second, more detailed national-level probe to verify the findings.
According to him, both reports confirmed multiple violations, including unauthorised transfer of mining rights, environmental breaches, and irregular operational practices.
Mr Schandorf noted that the investigation also raised serious concerns about the under-declaration of gold output, which he said “raised red flags” and formed part of the basis for regulatory action.
He further explained that, under the law, mining companies must obtain approval from the Minister before transferring or engaging third parties in their concessions, but Adamus allegedly failed to do so for years.
According to him, the government is prioritising environmental protection and public safety over profit, stressing that mining operations must comply strictly with national regulations.
“The decision was taken purely on the basis of the law and the findings of the regulators,” he said, adding that authorities are prepared to pursue legal action if wrongdoing is proven, including possible prosecution of individuals involved.
Mr Schandorf also noted that although the law allows the Minister to revoke licences in such circumstances, Adamus was later given an opportunity to meet the Ministry as part of ongoing administrative processes.
He maintained that the government’s action reflects stronger enforcement of mining laws and forms part of broader efforts to ensure responsible resource governance in Ghana.
