The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG) has petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to investigate the Member of Parliament for Aowin in the Western Region, Oscar Ofori Larbi, over his alleged involvement in illegal mining in forest reserves in the area.
The MP has consistently denied his involvement in galamsey activities.
But in the petition, the Coalition wants the MP prosecuted if found guilty of the allegations.
In a letter addressed to the IGP, GCAG formally requested an immediate and thorough criminal investigation into the allegations that the MP is involved in galamsey.
“If substantiated, these allegations would constitute serious criminal offences under Ghanaian law, including violations of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), the Environmental Protection Act, and other relevant statutes.”
The Coalition also informed the police of the ongoing destruction of the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve in the Aowin Municipality, Western North Region.
According to the Coalition, the illegal miners have degraded the forest through their illegal mining activities.
It asked the police to “collaborate with relevant agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Forestry Commission, and the Minerals Commission, to obtain the necessary evidence.”
The petition added, “We request a prompt response outlining the steps your office intends to take on this matter. Failure to act promptly could lead to further environmental degradation and a loss of public trust.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
