Convenor of the Anti-Galamsey Coalition, Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, is calling for the arrest of the National Organiser of the NDC, Joseph Yamin, and the party’s National Vice Chairman, Yakubu Abanga Alhassan, in connection with their alleged involvement in illegal mining activities.
According to him, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) is failing to act on the Attorney-General’s directive to investigate the duo over their suspected roles in illegal mining, also known as ‘galamsey’.
In a letter dated Tuesday, July 15, 2025, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, had instructed EOCO to summon Yamin and Abanga for questioning, following reports linking them to unauthorised mining activities.
Dr. Ashigbey, in an interview with Channel One TV on Monday, August 18, 2025, stressed the need for the law to be applied equally to all persons, irrespective of political affiliation.
He asserted that the law should be applied to the duo just as it was done to Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP.
“The NDC’s National Organiser and National Vice Chairman have been named in reports, and the Attorney-General has ordered an investigation. Yet, EOCO has failed to take action. Just as they did with Chairman Wontumi of Akonta Mining, they should arrest Yamin and Abanga and carry out the necessary investigations,” he said.
He emphasised the need for consistent enforcement of the law to effectively combat galamsey, irrespective of political connections.
Meanwhile, he called for the prosecution of Wontumi, following his arrest by EOCO, for his involvement in galamsey activities that have destroyed forest reserves.
Dr. Ashigbey also urged the state agencies handling Wontumi’s case to provide regular updates to the public to keep them informed about the progress of the case.
“We are still in the dark about what is happening with Akonta Mining. Both Wontumi and his fellow directors must be brought to court,” he stated.
‘Galamsey’ fight: Treat Yamin & Abanga same as owner of Akonta Mining – Ken Ashigbey to EOCO
