In a bold move to combat the rampant menace of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, state security forces have launched a major operation resulting in the seizure of gold, weapons, and illegal mining equipment. The crackdown, which has been lauded by government officials, aims to dismantle the deep-rooted syndicates driving this illicit activity, which has wreaked havoc on the environment and local communities.
Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister of lands and natural resources revealed the latest developments in the ongoing fight against galamsey during a press briefing earlier today. Speaking at parliament , Hon Kofi Buah emphasized the importance of this operation in restoring law and order to the nation’s mining sector.
“This operation is a clear message to all those engaging in illegal mining that the state is committed to protecting our environment, securing our resources, and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our citizens,” he stated. “These criminal activities have not only devastated our forests and water bodies but have also fueled lawlessness in affected areas, where illegal miners often resort to violence.”
According to the minister, a joint task force consisting of police, military, and environmental protection officers was deployed to a notorious mining site in the Western Region, where illegal miners have been operating under the radar for months. The operation led to the discovery of vast amounts of gold nuggets, as well as high-powered firearms hidden in makeshift mining camps.
Authorities have reported the confiscation of dozens of firearms, including rifles and pistols, in addition to equipment used in the illegal extraction of gold such as excavators, dredgers, and water pumps. Several suspects have been arrested in connection with the operation, and investigations are ongoing.
Environmental damage from these illegal mining activities has been a long-standing concern. Rivers, once pristine, are now contaminated with mercury and other toxic substances, leaving communities dependent on these water sources at severe risk of waterborne diseases. The deforestation caused by illegal mining has also worsened the effects of climate change, reducing the land’s ability to absorb rainwater and contributing to flooding in some areas.
As part of the government’s broader effort to combat galamsey, Armah-Kofi Buah assured the public that these operations would be sustained, and more sites would be raided in the coming weeks. He also appealed to the public to collaborate with authorities by reporting illegal mining activities in their localities.
Voice of Hon Armah Kofi Buah .
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