Government Communications Minister, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has disclosed that more than 1,000 individuals have been arrested for engaging in illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
He said the government is determined to ensure that the law takes its full course to curb the menace.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Monday, September 15, Mr Kwakye Ofosu revealed that plans are underway to establish special courts dedicated to handling galamsey cases. This, he explained, will speed up prosecutions and deliver justice more effectively.
“We cannot continue to allow this practice to destroy our water bodies and farmlands. That is why over 1,000 people have already been arrested, and we are creating special courts to prosecute these cases without delay,” he said.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fighting illegal mining, stressing that the crackdown is aimed not only at punishing offenders but also at protecting lives, safeguarding the environment, and securing Ghana’s long-term future.
Gov’t recognises genuine concerns on galamsey
Mr Kwakye Ofosu acknowledged the widespread concerns raised by citizens and stakeholders over the destructive impact of illegal mining under the NDC current administration.
He assured the public that the government remains committed to addressing the menace.
According to him, the administration does not dismiss the voices of ordinary Ghanaians who are directly affected by the devastation of water bodies, farmlands, and ecosystems.
“Government fully appreciates the genuine concerns people have expressed on galamsey, and these are not matters we take lightly,” he said.
Mr Kwakye Ofosu stressed that while the government has rolled out several interventions, tackling galamsey requires collective responsibility.
“We cannot pretend it is an easy fight, but what we can assure Ghanaians is that the government has not lost sight of its duty to protect lives, livelihoods and the environment,” he noted.
He called on the public to support ongoing interventions and resist political interference in efforts to clamp down on the illegal activity.
“We must all rally behind the measures being implemented. The survival of our water bodies and farmlands cannot be compromised,” the Communications Minister added.