President John Dramani Mahama has issued a directive for the arrest and prosecution of any security personnel involved in illegal activities under the guise of fighting illegal mining.
Speaking during his nationwide Thank You Tour at Sefwi Juabuso in the Western North Region, the President said he has received reports of some anti-Galamsey taskforce members extorting money from legal small-scale miners—an act he described as undermining government efforts to combat illegal mining.
“Our forests, rivers, and green belts are national treasures, but we are alarmed by the environmental destruction that is reported across Awaso, Dadiaso, and Sefianyanso, mainly due to illegal mining,” President Mahama stated.
He called the situation a national emergency and affirmed that the National Taskforce would intensify efforts to halt illegal mining in forest reserves and water bodies.
“I’ve also noted the activities of illegal anti-Galamsey taskforces that go around extorting money from legitimate small-scale mining companies. I’ve requested that the authorities arrest and prosecute any individuals involved in this illegal anti-Galamsey activity,” he added.
President Mahama stressed that no member of the security services will be spared if found guilty of harassment or exploitation of licensed operators.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
