The Ankobeahene of Akyem Nanapa and his subjects in the Atiwa East District of the Eastern Region have urged President John Dramani Mahama to declare a state of emergency regarding illegal mining activities, known as galamsey, in their community.
The traditional leader and his people lament that galamsey activities have engulfed the community, destroying water bodies and roads leading to farms.
He noted that the area, a farming community with a population of approximately 3,000, relies heavily on farming as their main source of livelihood; however, they are currently facing significant challenges due to galamsey activities.
The community can no longer access their farms, resulting in rotting farm products and potential food insecurity.
Additionally, the presence of galamsey operators has been linked to a rise in teenage pregnancies among school children. Community members shared their grievances, stating that illegal mining activities have threatened their livelihoods and the environment.
The traditional leader lamented, “We are now dealing with serious social consequences, including a disturbing rise in teenage pregnancies among school children, as the community’s socio-economic structure continues to deteriorate.”
In a related development, the Ghana Police Service conducted a coordinated intelligence-led operation, arresting 27 male suspects during an anti-illegal mining operation at Ankaase Gyadam, near Asamang Tamfoe in the Eastern Region.
The suspects were arrested while engaging in illegal mining activities at various sites. During the operation, some individuals attempted to obstruct and attack police officers, wielding machetes and other offensive implements.
The police seized 11 excavators, one bulldozer, one pump-action shotgun, three saloon vehicles, one Mitsubishi pickup truck, one pick loader, several water pumping machines, and other mining equipment from the sites.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
