The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has revealed that 500 excavators have been seized from illegal mining sites across the country since he assumed office, as part of intensified efforts to combat galamsey.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, February 26, the Minister provided an update on government’s ongoing crackdown on illegal mining, which continues to threaten water bodies, forest reserves, and agricultural lands.
Responding to questions from Members of Parliament, Armah-Kofi Buah said the seizures were the result of coordinated operations involving security agencies and officials of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
He further disclosed that an additional 490 excavators have been impounded at the Tema Port and are currently awaiting clearance.
“Since my assumption of office, a total of 500 excavators have been seized at various illegal mining sites across the country. In addition, a total of 490 excavators have been impounded at the Tema Port awaiting clearance,” he said.
The Minister stressed that all seized equipment has been properly documented and accounted for.
“I wish to state categorically that no excavator seized is missing or unaccounted for. The military and the Ministry of Lands have data on all the seized excavators and their locations,” he added.
His remarks come amid heightened public concern over the widespread use of heavy-duty equipment in illegal mining activities and allegations in the past that some seized excavators had gone missing.
Government has in recent months stepped up enforcement measures to curb illegal mining, which has caused extensive environmental damage and raised national security concerns.
