The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has commended the Western Naval Command for its crucial support in combating illegal mining, particularly on the Ankobra River.
He was speaking at a ceremony to present two outboard motors to bolster their operations.
Meanwhile, Flag Officer Commanding the Western Naval Command, Commodore Samuel Ayelazono has issued a stern warning to illegal miners on river bodies that the navy will intensify its patrols.
Government has taken action following complaints from the Western Regional National Security and NAIMOS about logistical difficulties in riverine operations.
At a short ceremony to present two outboard motors to the Navy, the Lands and Natural Resource Minister, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, praised the Navy’s efforts in the face of limited resources, declaring its role in the fight against illegal mining as indispensable.
“The work the Navy does is very important. I believe the government’s determination to protect our waters is crucial, and the Navy’s role in the fight against illegal mining is indispensable.
It is also clear we must ensure the necessary logistics are in place which is why this presentation is happening. I am grateful for their efforts, and we will continue to offer our support”. He said.
Flag Officer Commanding the Western Naval Command, Commodore Samuel Ayelazono, reiterated an unwavering commitment to the fight with a stern warning to illegal miners operating on the rivers to stop or risk arrest.
“On behalf of the Western Navy Command, I extend our sincere gratitude for your generous donation of these outboard motors.
This equipment will significantly enhance our operational capabilities and improve our response time in the fight against illegal mining.
We pledge to put these valuable assets to the best possible use. To those engaged in illegal mining on our waters, my advice is simple pursue legitimate work.
Otherwise, you will face the full force of our resolve. We are committed to sustaining our operations and will clear our waters of this illegal activity”. He noted.
In a related development, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has commissioned the third batch of the Blue Water Guards.
The 636 newly passed-out personnel were commissioned at the Ghana Navy Forward Operating Base in Ezilebo, raising the program’s nationwide strength to 1,700.
“We have trained approximately 1,700 Blue Water Guards across nearly seven regions, confirming that our strategy is on the right course. We are particularly proud of the pioneers, those at the forefront of this effort.
They are taking the fight directly to the illegal miners, making life very uncomfortable for them.
We know that you’re going to the Ashanti, Central and Eastern regions to work closely with Ghana Navy, the NAIMOS and the Police Service.
Our message to the perpetrators is clear we are giving them hell. We will stand and fight until our waters are blue again.” He added.
By Ebenezer Atiemo
