Mahama cracks down on Galamsey: Orders arrest and prosecution of illegal miners

President John Dramani Mahama has issued a strong directive for the immediate arrest and prosecution of individuals involved in illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, within Ghana’s forest reserves.

Speaking at the swearing-in of the third batch of ministers at the Jubilee House on Thursday, January 30, 2025, the President assigned key ministers, including the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, the Minister for the Interior, the Attorney General, and the Minister for Justice, to ensure that offenders are swiftly brought to justice.

“I urge them to take immediate steps to ensure the arrest and prosecution of any persons or group of persons engaged in this illegality,” President Mahama emphasized.

His directive follows allegations that the government had granted approval for mining activities in forest reserves—claims that the administration has strongly denied.

The President also issued a stern warning that no member of his government is permitted to engage in small-scale mining or galamsey, making it clear that any official found violating this directive would face severe consequences.

“As Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, you’ll be responsible for protecting the environment from destructive galamsey activities and ensuring the effective management of our natural resources,” he told the newly sworn-in minister.

Additionally, President Mahama reaffirmed his government’s commitment to preserving Ghana’s forest reserves by banning the issuance of new mining leases in these areas. He further instructed the immediate cancellation of all leases previously granted for mining operations in forest reserves by the former administration.

“For the avoidance of doubt, this government has not given any person or group permission to engage in any form of mining within our forest reserves,” he declared.

This latest move signals the government’s renewed determination to tackle illegal mining, prevent environmental degradation, and safeguard Ghana’s natural.

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