The CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines and Convener of the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, Dr Ken Ashigbey, is calling on President John Dramani Mahama to declare a state of emergency in areas severely affected by illegal mining, also known as galamsey.
According to Dr Ashigbey, the renewed urgency demonstrated by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources in combating the galamsey menace has unfortunately led to increased resistance from illegal miners.
He noted that some of these miners are now resorting to attacking state officials on duty.
“What should be happening is that because the galamseyers have seen a renewed effort by the current Minister, we’ve also seen the urgency with which they are fighting back,” he stated on TV3’s “New Day” program today, Monday, June 30.
He cited recent incidents where state actors, including anti-galamsey operatives, have come under attack.
Dr Ashigbey recalled a specific case where a Forestry Commission officer was ambushed by over 20 illegal miners and forced to retreat. He also referenced the assault on Dr Hanna Louisa Bisiw-Kotei, describing it as a clear indication that certain areas have become dangerous zones due to the activities of illegal miners.
“This is the reason why we believe that it is important for the President to declare a state of emergency in some parts of the country,” he stressed.
“Where we still have rampant galamsey activities, and where criminal gangs are boldly attacking state actors, there is no option but to treat the situation with the seriousness it deserves,” he added.
Dr Ashigbey further raised concerns about the practice of deporting foreign nationals involved in illegal mining, deeming it an insufficient measure and contrary to Ghana’s Minerals and Mining Act, 2015 (Act 995).
