Mr. Adu Gyamfi, the Ashanti Regional Secretary of the Small-Scale Miners Association, has issued a strong condemnation of the recent mob attack on officers of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS).
The incident occurred at Bronikrom, a community near Hwidiem in the Asutifi South Constituency of the Ahafo Region.
Speaking on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, Mr. Gyamfi emphasized that NAIMOS is the sole recognised body currently mandated to address illegal mining activities.
He acknowledged the incident as an “unfortunate and unacceptable act” and a serious occupational hazard inherent in the nature of
NAIMOS’s work.
He called upon the security agencies, particularly the police, to launch a thorough investigation into the matter.
Mr. Gyamfi commended NAIMOS for its professional conduct, noting that its approach represents a significant improvement over past operations that involved extortion from miners.
While acknowledging that the attackers might have mistakenly perceived the officers as former extortionists, he firmly stated that such a perception does not justify the violent assault.
”As an association, we will take steps to engage with our members to ensure they recognize the legitimate work of NAIMOS, thereby preventing any form of needless confrontation. We strongly condemn this unfortunate act in no uncertain terms.”
He further asserted that the current government has demonstrated a clear commitment to tackling illegal mining, evidenced by the decision to limit the task force operations to NAIMOS.
Mr. Gyamfi praised NAIMOS for being transparent and difficult to compromise in their operations.
He urged the public and relevant authorities to provide NAIMOS with the necessary support and resources to continue their effective work without hindrance. He stressed that citizens should support their efforts rather than subject them to attacks.
He reiterated the need to promote responsible small-scale mining and called for the implementation of a reward system for licensed miners who operate within the confines of the law, thereby encouraging widespread compliance.
Mr. Gyamfi disclosed that some police officers continue to intimidate licensed small-scale miners at mining sites and called on authorities to urgently address this misconduct.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
