A joint security taskforce has launched operation in the Eastern Region to clamp down on illegal and irresponsible mining activities that continue to threaten the environment and local communities.
The taskforce has conducted operations in five districts- Tiwa West, Kwarbibrem, Lower West Anymore, Denkyembour, Lower West Akyem and Fanteakwa South targeting areas notorious for illegal mining.
The head of the Eastern Regional Security Council (REGSEC), Rita Adjei Awatey, has issued a strong warning to illegal miners, declaring that they will be relentlessly pursued and brought to justice.
“We want to tell the people of the Eastern Region that we are ready to combat, they should get ready for our men. Our men are on the land and water, they are not leaving until we end illegal mining. We are pursuing illegal mining using the laws of the country. Whoever is doing the wrong thing should know, our men are following you, ” Madam Awatey who doubles as Regional Minister warned.
She expressed concern at the impact of irresponsible mining saying “We can’t have safe environment, we can’t get clean water to drink, children are falling into open pits and dying.”
The taskforce comprises personnel from the military, police, and environmental protection agencies, all working to ensure that illegal mining activities are tackled head-on. More districts are expected to be covered in the coming weeks as the operation intensifies.
The renewed operation is part of a broader strategy to restore environmental integrity and protect water bodies in affected communities.
Some arrests have been made, while excavators guns and other equipment have been seized.
Several comments have been made by President John Dramani Mahama and the Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah Buah on the commitment to end galamsey.
Civil Society Organization and interest groups are hoping the Mahama led government will provide effective solutions by way of repealing some policies and take more drastic actions to end irresponsible mining soon.
By Yvonne Neequaye
