The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating illegal mining, warning perpetrators that “their time is up.”
Speaking at a press briefing, the minister condemned recent attacks on journalists covering illegal mining activities and assured that those responsible would be held accountable.
“We will not allow anyone to harm journalists who are fighting to protect our environment. The law will deal with them,” he stated.
Mr. Buah revealed that several suspects, including seven Chinese nationals and their Ghanaian accomplices, have already been put on trial.
He also disclosed that discussions are ongoing with the judiciary to establish dedicated courts for fast-tracking illegal mining prosecutions.
Expressing concern over the destruction of Ghana’s water bodies, the minister warned that if major rivers like the Ankobra and Offin continue to be polluted, “we won’t have a country anymore.”
He called on all Ghanaians to join the fight, stressing that “this war is for our survival.”
To strengthen efforts, he announced that Parliament will soon repeal laws granting mining licenses in forest reserves, effectively closing legal loopholes that have enabled illegal activities. Additionally, he assured that seized mining equipment will be accounted for and repurposed for responsible mining operations.
“This fight is going to be relentless,” Mr. Buah declared, vowing that authorities will move from one forest to another, one water body to another, until illegal mining is completely eradicated.
He also revealed that investigators are tracking financiers and suppliers of mining equipment to ensure that every individual involved in the destruction of Ghana’s environment faces justice.
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Source: Comfort Sweety Hayford/ATLFMNEWS
