Illegal miners given two weeks to vacate forest reserves, water bodies in Ashanti
Dr. Frank Amoakohene, the Ashanti Regional Minister, has issued a two-week ultimatum to individuals engaged in illegal mining within forest reserves and water bodies in the Ashanti Region. He emphasized that failure to cease operations and vacate these areas will result in strict legal action.
This directive is part of the government’s efforts to curb the devastating effects of illegal mining, also known as “galamsey,” which has widespread destruction on forests, water bodies, and farmlands.
The government is committed to protecting the environment and ensuring sustainable development. Dr. Amoakohene emphasized that illegal miners must heed the warning and vacate the areas to avoid legal consequences.
He also expressed his commitment to promoting good governance and addressing pressing issues in the region, including social infrastructure, economic growth, unemployment, security, and transportation
This directive is part of ongoing efforts to combat the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining activities, commonly known as “galamsey.” These activities have led to significant deforestation and pollution of water bodies in the region.
The government has previously implemented measures such as Operation Vanguard, a military-police joint task force established in 2017 to address illegal mining. Despite these efforts, challenges persist, prompting renewed directives like the current ultimatum.
The ultimatum reflects the government’s commitment to enforcing environmental regulations and protecting natural resources from the adverse effects of illegal mining.
