The fight against illegal mining, known as galamsey, requires a nuanced approach that takes into account the social and economic realities of communities where mining concessions have been issued. The increasing involvement of youth in these areas is closely tied to the economic benefits derived from illegal mining, which serves as a primary source of livelihood and income.
Richard Elimah, a Natural Resource Governance Analyst, raised these concerns on the Adekyee Mu Nsem morning show on Ahotor 92.3 FM, hosted by Citizen Kofi Owusu in Accra.
Elimah argued that clashes between communities and the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) often stem from residents feeling that their livelihoods are being denied. He emphasized that many rural communities rely on mining as their main source of income, in contrast to urban populations with diverse employment opportunities. He suggested that any anti-galamsey measures should carefully consider these economic realities to prevent social unrest.
In a related development, Ken Ashigbey, convener of the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, has called on the government to assert its authority following a violent attack on NAIMOS officials during an operation at Bronikrom, near Hwediem in the Ahafo Region.
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has ordered swift investigations into the attack, describing it as unacceptable and a direct challenge to law enforcement. Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno has also directed the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to probe the incident thoroughly.
Ashigbey stated, “The state needs to demonstrate that it has the power. The state should not demonstrate weakness; otherwise, these criminal elements will take full advantage and overrun the country.”
The attack, which occurred on Saturday, November 1, 2025, involved NAIMOS personnel being confronted by suspected illegal miners during an operation. Police confirmed that several suspects were arrested, and key items, including a Smith & Wesson pistol, ammunition, two pistol magazines, an unregistered Range Rover, an unregistered Toyota RAV4, and mobile phones, were recovered from the scene.
Ashigbey described the incident as “despicable” and expressed support for calls from law enforcement and the Ministry for ensuring accountability.
He further noted that video evidence exists to support investigations. “According to NAIMOS, this was not a fully armed operation; it was a reconnaissance mission to position a permanent team in the area. The investigation should clarify whether community members were incited by external actors. However, there is adequate evidence to prosecute anyone found responsible,” he said.