The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Sefwi Wiawso, Honourable Dominic Gyasi, is taking a strong stance against galamsey, or illegal mining.
He warns everyone involved to stop their activities immediately or face serious consequences, stating that the government is adopting a “ruthless” approach with no exceptions.
The MCE urged those involved to take advantage of the current amnesty and “quietly walk away”, as he cannot guarantee their safety in the future.
He highlighted that illegal mining is a threat to public health, safety, and security.
“Illegal mining is a threat to our existence as people, and we have to deal with it once and for all. That is why I am warning all those involved to quietly walk away. From what I have observed, the fight against galamsey is going to take a ruthless approach, and so if you have relatives, friends or know anybody involved in galamsey, call them and advise them to stop. If they have travelled to other communities for galamsey, ask them to return home because we are going to deal with illegal miners ruthlessly. I cannot guarantee what will happen to those involved in galamsey in my municipality. After today, I cannot guarantee what will happen, so ask them to return home.”
Honourable Gyasi also dismissed the common claim that illegal miners are poor and have no other options for work. He stated that the majority of those involved in galamsey are actually wealthy individuals who are investing their profits in multiple properties.
“The signs I have seen show that the fight against galamsey would be something else. The war we are waging against galamsey has never happened in this country before. I can state that as a fact. Illegal mining is a threat; it has led to the death of several individuals.
The Defence Minister and the seven others who perished in the helicopter crash lost their lives while attending an event focused on combating galamsey. Those involved in galamsey are not impoverished individuals. Conduct an investigation, and you will discover how they are investing their funds in real estate and other activities, and report back to me if they appear to be struggling financially.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana