#miningcrackdown

Government Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Mining with Major Seizures and Arrests

The Ghanaian government has significantly intensified its efforts to combat illegal mining, known locally as “galamsey,” with a series of operations resulting in the seizure of 56 excavators and the arrest of 18 individuals. These operations, carried out jointly by the military and the Forestry Commission, spanned across three regions in the country. Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, addressed Parliament on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, outlining the key developments in the crackdown and reaffirming the government’s commitment to tackling illegal mining and its devastating environmental consequences.

Massive Seizures of Equipment and Weapons in Anti-Galamsey Operations

In the course of the operations, law enforcement agencies confiscated a significant amount of mining equipment, including 25 “chanfang” machines, two payloaders, three bulldozers, three pickup trucks, seven pumping machines, and even four pump-action rifles. These seizures mark a significant step forward in the government’s efforts to curb the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining activities. The government has pledged to continue its aggressive stance against galamsey, recognizing the importance of safeguarding the country’s natural resources for future generations.

Minister’s Assurance on Political Neutrality of the Crackdown

Amid increasing concerns about potential political interference in the anti-galamsey operations, Minister Buah took to Parliament to stress that the arrests and seizures were made solely based on illegal activities, with no political influence. Reports had surfaced suggesting that some political figures were obstructing enforcement efforts in Dunkwa, but Buah was adamant that anyone found engaged in illegal mining, regardless of their political affiliations, would face the full force of the law. He emphasized that the fight against galamsey must be apolitical, and investigations were already underway to address the alleged political interference.

Comprehensive Strategy to Combat Illegal Mining

The government’s strategy to fight illegal mining extends beyond law enforcement and includes stakeholder engagement, alternative job creation, and reclamation of degraded lands. Buah outlined the establishment of two high-level committees aimed at assessing and proposing actionable solutions to the challenges posed by illegal mining. One of these committees focuses on the illegal mining activities in forests and water bodies, while the other, consisting of military and security experts, is analyzing the terrain to determine the best way to tackle illegal mining in specific areas.

As part of the broader reforms, the government has revoked all small-scale mining licenses issued after December 7, 2024, due to procedural issues. A newly formed licensing review committee will now audit previously issued permits to ensure compliance with regulations. In an effort to enhance transparency and ensure that mining is conducted legally and sustainably, Buah also announced plans to decentralize the licensing process, empowering district-level authorities to issue permits directly.

Environmental Restoration and Green Jobs for Youth

To address the environmental devastation caused by illegal mining, the government is launching several initiatives aimed at restoring degraded lands and creating sustainable employment opportunities for local communities. One of the most notable projects is the ‘Tree for Life Restoration Initiative,’ which will be officially launched by President John Mahama on March 21 in the Ashanti Region. This initiative is focused on rehabilitating areas that have been extensively mined, with a particular emphasis on creating green jobs for young people in communities affected by galamsey.

In addition, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has introduced the ‘Blue Water Initiative,’ which aims to restore heavily polluted river bodies that have been damaged by illegal mining activities. This initiative highlights the government’s dedication to not only addressing the environmental issues caused by galamsey but also to promoting sustainable practices that will benefit future generations.

Transparency and Accountability in Handling Confiscated Equipment

To ensure transparency and accountability, Minister Buah confirmed that all confiscated mining equipment would remain in police custody until the legal proceedings surrounding these cases are concluded. This measure is intended to maintain public trust in the government’s actions and to guarantee that all actions taken in the crackdown are legally sound. The government’s commitment to transparency in this process is critical as it seeks to send a clear message that illegal mining will not be tolerated and that those found guilty of engaging in these activities will be held fully accountable.

The Broader Impact on Ghana’s Environmental Future

The crackdown on illegal mining in Ghana is not just about law enforcement; it is a concerted effort to protect the environment and secure the future of the country’s natural resources. With galamsey contributing significantly to deforestation, water pollution, and soil degradation, the government’s efforts to restore these areas through programs like the ‘Tree for Life Restoration Initiative’ and the ‘Blue Water Initiative’ are crucial. These programs also seek to engage local communities, providing them with alternative livelihoods while ensuring that Ghana’s environmental legacy is preserved.

International Recognition of Ghana’s Efforts

The government’s approach to combatting illegal mining has gained attention from African news outlets and environmental organizations across the continent. Ghana’s stance on this issue is seen as a model for other countries dealing with similar challenges. The coordinated efforts between various governmental bodies and the focus on environmental restoration could serve as an example for other nations grappling with illegal mining activities and their far-reaching consequences.