Ghana's Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has issued a strong warning to those involved in illegal mining, known locally as "galamsey," within forest reserves and water bodies. The government, he declared, will not tolerate the destruction of natural resources and pollution of water sources, vowing a renewed crackdown on illegal mining activities regardless of political affiliation.
During a visit to the Offin-Shelterbelt forest reserve in the Ashanti region, where a joint military-police task force has recently cleared all illegal miners, Minister Buah emphasized the government's zero-tolerance policy. He stressed that anyone found mining in restricted zones will face the full force of the law. In a passionate speech, he highlighted the devastating impact of galamsey on the environment and the health of the population.
"This is where we get everything that will keep us as human beings alive," Buah stated, referring to the vital role of the forest and its water resources. He condemned the actions of illegal miners as a threat to the very existence of the people. He reiterated that while legal mining pathways exist, there would be no leniency for those engaging in illegal activities within protected areas.
Minister Buah expressed confidence that the repeal of L.I. 2463, which previously allowed mining permits in forest reserves, will significantly strengthen the government's ability to protect these critical areas. The repeal, he explained, removes any possibility of even the President granting permission for mining in these restricted zones.
According to TV3’s Ashanti Regional Correspondent, Ibrahim Abubakar, the crackdown has already resulted in arrests and the seizure of 15 excavators. This decisive action signals a significant shift in the government's approach to combating galamsey, demonstrating a commitment to protecting Ghana's environment and natural resources.
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