President John Dramani Mahama has issued a strong directive for the immediate arrest and prosecution of any security personnel found engaging in illegal activities while pretending to combat illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey.”
Speaking during his Thank You Tour in Sefwi Juaboso, located in the Western North Region, the President voiced his deep concern over rising reports of extortion by members of the anti-galamsey taskforce.
The President revealed troubling allegations that some security operatives are harassing and demanding money from legally registered small-scale miners, a practice he labeled as detrimental to national efforts aimed at combating illegal mining. “Our forests, rivers, and green belts are national treasures, but we are alarmed by the environmental destruction reported across Awaso, Dadiaso, and Sefianyanso, primarily due to illegal mining,” he stated, emphasizing the urgent need to protect these vital resources.
Describing the ongoing situation as a national emergency, President Mahama announced plans for the National Taskforce to intensify operations designed to safeguard forest reserves and water bodies from further degradation. He pointed out the alarming presence of unauthorized anti-galamsey taskforces that exploit legitimate mining companies by extorting money from them.
“I’ve requested that the authorities arrest and prosecute any individuals involved in these illegal actions,” he added firmly. The President made it clear that no security officer—regardless of their rank—will be shielded from accountability if found guilty of misconduct.
He stressed the importance of protecting legitimate miners, stating that they must not be preyed upon, but rather supported in their efforts to operate within the law. With this decisive stance, President Mahama aims to restore integrity to the fight against illegal mining and protect Ghana’s precious natural resources for future generations.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
