Western Regional Minister calls for drone surveillance to curb galamsey
The Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, has appealed for the urgent introduction of drone surveillance to boost efforts against illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, particularly in the upstream areas of major rivers within the region.
He explained that current anti-galamsey interventions, which have largely concentrated on downstream locations, have produced limited results, as illegal miners continue to contaminate water bodies from their points of origin.
Mr Nelson made the call during an interview with Channel One TV after a joint anti-galamsey operation carried out by the Second Infantry Battalion (2BN) of the Ghana Army and the Western Naval Command along the upstream stretch of the Ankobra River in the Amenfi Central District of the Western Region.
The operation resulted in the confiscation of seven excavators and seven water-pumping machines that were being used for illegal mining activities along the river.
Although combined security agencies have conducted sustained operations along the Ankobra River over the past months, the Western Regional Security Council (REGSEC) says the outcomes have fallen short of expectations. This situation necessitated Saturday’s renewed joint operation aimed at illegal mining sites located upstream of the river.
The security team, during the exercise, uncovered widespread environmental degradation, with several mining pits situated dangerously close to the river, major road networks and electricity poles. Along the Tarkwa–Breman road leading to the main galamsey site, extensive excavations were observed, creating serious inconvenience for motorists and nearby residents.
Residents of affected communities also voiced their frustration over the continued activities of illegal miners and the resulting threats to their livelihoods and safety.
Speaking at the operation, the Western Regional National Security Liaison Officer, Brigadier General Musah Whajah (Rtd), noted that while security agencies remain determined to combat illegal mining, the swift return of galamsey operators after operations remains a significant challenge. He underscored the importance of improved surveillance and sustained enforcement to prevent miners from reclaiming cleared sites.
The Western Regional Minister, who also serves as Chairman of the Regional Security Council, said the deployment of drone technology would make it possible to monitor illegal mining activities in real time, particularly in difficult-to-access upstream locations. According to Joseph Nelson, placing surveillance focus on the source of rivers such as the Ankobra and Pra is essential to safeguarding water bodies from further pollution and ensuring lasting success in the fight against galamsey.
Source: CNR
