Illegal mining, or galamsey, has been a major problem in Ghana for several years. The government has been struggling to contain this menace and has initiated several measures to tackle the issue. The latest revelation by the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice indicates that over 700 individuals are facing charges in 117 cases before various High Courts and Circuit Courts across the country.
The accused are being charged with offenses such as undertaking mining operations without a license and buying and selling minerals without a license, under the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 995). This act imposes heavy fines and lengthy prison sentences for illegal mining, and the government has been determined to enforce it.
The Eastern Region accounts for the highest number of cases, with 50, followed by the Western and Ashanti Regions. However, the prosecution of suspected galamsey offenders has faced challenges, including the granting of bail with lenient conditions and judges failing to apply the punishment regime under Act 995.
Despite these challenges, the government remains committed to fighting illegal mining and is using initiatives such as Operation Vanguard and community mining projects to do so. Operation Vanguard is a joint military and police task force set up by the government to combat illegal mining, while community mining projects are aimed at empowering local communities to engage in legal mining activities.
For the most part, the fight against illegal mining has been slow and arduous. However, the government’s commitment to the cause, coupled with the efforts of various stakeholders, gives hope that the situation can be turned around. It is essential that all citizens support this effort by refraining from engaging in illegal mining activities and reporting any such activities to the relevant authorities.
Source: Graphic Online