Fresh investigations following the removal of Chinese mining company Longshine from the concession of SWED Mining at Prestea Bondaye in the Western Region have uncovered disturbing allegations of labour exploitation, possible immigration breaches and violations of Ghana’s mining and labour laws.

According to information gathered from workers and sources connected to the operation, employees at the mining site were allegedly subjected to harsh working conditions, including long hours without rest days and poor remuneration.

Some workers claimed they earned as little as GHS1,000 monthly while working under unsafe and unhealthy conditions.

There are also allegations that workers who fell ill due to the conditions at the site allegedly had deductions made from their salaries instead of receiving medical care or support.

The claims have raised concerns over possible human rights abuses and the treatment of Ghanaian workers within sections of the mining sector.

Investigators have further alleged that several Chinese nationals operating at the site may have been working with tourist visas, some of which had reportedly expired.

According to sources, documents including passport copies, visa records and salary payment details are among materials being reviewed as part of ongoing inquiries.

One of the most serious allegations is that the plant manager allegedly supervised operations while holding an expired tourist visa.

If confirmed, the allegations could constitute breaches of Ghana’s immigration and labour regulations and raise questions about regulatory oversight at the mining site.

The revelations have triggered calls for investigations by the Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Police Service, National Security, and the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations, among other state agencies.