The Ashanti Regional Security Coordinator, Captain (Rtd.) John Kwame Jabari, says government efforts to combat illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, are beginning to yield results.
Speaking on the sidelines of a TEIN USTED-K Freshers’ Orientation and Akwaaba event, he noted that there is a visible improvement in the colour of rivers that were previously polluted by illegal mining activities.
“We’re seeing a noticeable change in the colour of our water bodies, and that’s a clear indication that our efforts are bearing fruit,” he said.
He attributed the progress to the work of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat, which has been conducting operations against illegal miners along rivers and in forest reserves.
“NAIMOS officials are working tirelessly to clear illegal miners from water bodies and forest reserves. We are destroying dredges and machinery, and we will continue to do so until we eliminate the menace,” he stated.
Captain Jabari revealed that military personnel have been deployed to forest reserves to prevent illegal mining activities.
He also claimed that previous permissions granted for mining in forest reserves have been revoked under the current administration through the repeal of Legislative Instrument 2462.
“We are taking steps to rectify past mistakes and safeguard our forests and water bodies. The law is clear—mining is prohibited in forest reserves, water bodies, and areas adjacent to roads,” he added.
The Security Coordinator reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustaining the fight against galamsey, stressing strong political will to protect the environment.
Meanwhile, he declined to comment on President John Dramani Mahama’s remarks suggesting that some members of the ruling party may be involved in illegal mining, saying he could not confirm or deny the claims.
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