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The artisanal and Small Scale Mining Africa- Network (ASMAN) a civil society organization, focused on the promotion of responsible small scale mining in the country, has noted with sadness and dismay, the shooting of one Frimpong alias Honorable, a small scale mining operator on Monday March 24th 2014 by some unknown assailant. The deceased who manages Sam Henk Mining reportedly died at Atwima-Techiman, near Kumasi in the Ashanti Region, after receiving several gun shots from the unknown gunmen who wielded what is suspected to be an AK 47 riffle. Our initial information indicates that the deceased who was just entering his house was shot dead at about 8:30pm on that unfaithful day. The fact that the killers did not attempt or tried to steal anything, and that they used AK 47, a sophisticated weapon usually not accessible to ordinary persons raises more questions about the intent and purpose of the act and therefore needs to be properly investigated by the security agencies with support from all. We condemn the cruel and brutal act which cannot be justified under any circumstances. We also commend the police for their resolve and alacrity to begin investigations which we believe could unravel the suspects behind this criminal act. We take this opportunity to advice our members to take conscious steps to safeguard their own security and that of their family since the industry which involves lots of monetary issues has proven to be a risky one. We recall the numerous acts of armed robbery perpetuated against several of our members across the country and wish to state that lots of security measures should be put in place to avert such catastrophe We are by this statement calling on all small scale miners in the area to remain calm, united and repose confidence in the security agencies to deliver and bring the perpetrators to book. Our heartfelt condolence goes to the family, friends and all members of the Small Scale Mining fraternity. Signed Director, Research & Policy (ASMAN) (Edward Kwasi Akuoko) +233 24 4660102, +233 20 4666662, email: [email protected]