The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has sounded the alarm over persistent interference from powerful individuals, especially chiefs and politicians, that continues to hamper Ghana’s efforts to curb illegal mining, known locally as galamsey.
Speaking at a stakeholder meeting in Sekondi on Sunday, December 7, Lieutenant Colonel Joshua Satekla, Deputy Director of Operations at NAIMOS, expressed the secretariat’s unwavering commitment to tackling galamsey. However, he pointed out that interference from influential figures remains a major obstacle to success.
Addressing 14 Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) from the Western Region and two Regional Police Commanders, Lt. Col. Satekla underscored the need for strict enforcement and collaboration at identified illegal mining hotspots. He emphasized that the effectiveness of operations relies heavily on support from local authorities to uphold designated “no-go” zones.
Yet, he revealed that such support is often undermined. “Every institution has challenges, and we are no exception. One of our key challenges is interference from influential people. We encounter this from politicians, chiefs, and other stakeholders in areas where we operate, and it is a big problem that must be addressed. Another critical challenge is logistics,” Lt. Col. Satekla stated.
Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson reaffirmed the government’s resolve to end illegal mining and called on all MMDCEs to support President John Dramani Mahama’s campaign to eliminate galamsey, urging unity in the fight for Ghana’s environmental future.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
