The Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, has announced that a total of 107 foreign nationals have been deported since he took office, as part of the government’s intensified clampdown on illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
Speaking to journalists, Minister Muntaka reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to curbing illegal mining, which continues to pose significant environmental, social, and economic threats to Ghana. He emphasized that the deportations form just one aspect of a broader, more aggressive national strategy to eliminate the menace.
“In addition to these deportations, I have instructed the Inspector-General of Police to carry out an immediate reshuffling of all regional, divisional, and district police commanders assigned to mining areas,” he stated.
According to the Minister, the decision was necessitated by the continued failure of some long-serving officers to halt the spread of illegal mining in their jurisdictions.
“These commanders have been in these communities for years, and yet galamsey operations have not only persisted but, in some cases, worsened. It’s time for fresh eyes, new energy, and a different approach,” he stressed.
Minister Muntaka noted that the government’s efforts will not stop there. He hinted at the implementation of more stringent policies and on-ground operations aimed at protecting Ghana’s natural resources for future generations.
“The fight against galamsey is a fight for the soul of our environment and the survival of our communities. We will not relent,” he declared.
This move marks a bold step in the government’s ongoing war against illegal mining, signaling a shift toward stricter enforcement and accountability within the security apparatus tasked with protecting Ghana’s lands and water bodies.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
