President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed that his government has so far arrested over 1,700 individuals involved in illegal mining activities across the country.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Christian Council of Ghana, President Mahama described illegal mining, popularly known as Galamsey, as a “complex and challenging fight” that has deeply affected communities in 11 of the country’s regions.
He explained that some members of the anti-illegal mining task force had recently faced brutal attacks by entire communities while performing their duties.
“Some members of the anti-illegal mining task force went to communities to do their jobs. They were brutally attacked by the whole community… but for good luck and the intervention of God, they survived,” he said.
The President emphasised the government’s commitment to enforcing the rule of law. “You cannot allow communities to act with impunity. We’re still processing those arrested and taking out those who were involved so they can face the full rigors of the law,” he stated.
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President Mahama also outlined the need for proper coordination of anti-Galamsey operations through the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAMOS).
“Before any operation, you take the mandate from NAMOS… you do reconnaissance and go accompanied by the necessary security to achieve your purpose,” he said.
In addition to arrests, the President highlighted efforts to curb illegal mining by targeting equipment supply, including the seizure and destruction of Chanfan machines, and by implementing alternative livelihoods projects. “We believe that about 30,000 hectares of land need to be reclaimed. We will employ the same boys who were used in Galamsey to plant trees, giving them a monthly stipend,” he said.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
