The Deputy Ranking Member on Parliament’s Lands and Natural Resources Committee has called for firm action and accountability if it is established that Asutifi North MP, Ebenezer Kwaku Addo, incited an attack on personnel of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) during an operation near Bronikrom–Hwediem in the Ahafo Region.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Top Story on Tuesday, November 4, Akwasi Konadu described the incident as a serious threat to law enforcement and the rule of law, saying Parliament must set an example if one of its own is found complicit in undermining state authority.
“We are going to follow this matter through and through… We will follow and make sure that if indeed there is an iota of truth in the effect that he [Asutifi North MP] mobilised mobs to attack the NAIMOS team, this matter ought not to rest so that it sets an example to other people,” he said.
The Manhyia North MP condemned the alleged actions, noting that reports of a mob forcibly disarming officers and freeing suspects from handcuffs represented “a blatant defiance” of the authority of a legally established taskforce.
“For them to go as far as taking keys and removing handcuffs from someone apprehended by NAIMOS officers is highly uncalled for,” he stressed, adding that “such behaviour emboldens others to defy the law and weakens the fight against illegal mining.”
The Deputy Ranking Member recalled that the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, had earlier cautioned that any Member of Parliament found to be involved in or facilitating illegal mining activities would face the full rigours of the law, including the possible loss of their seat.
He further emphasised that the Committee on Lands and Natural Resources will closely monitor ongoing investigations and collaborate with relevant security agencies to ensure transparency and accountability.
“Our lives are in danger with these activities. And if an effort is being made which is not even adequate, and you are able to lead people just to show them that you are representing them. On what basis?” he added.
The Asutifi North MP has since been arraigned following allegations of interference with a NAIMOS anti-galamsey operation.