The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has emphasized that the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, cannot be left solely to the government but requires collective effort from all stakeholders.
His remarks come in the wake of a brutal attack on a member of the Forestry Commission’s Rapid Response Team, who is currently fighting for his life at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital after sustaining severe machete wounds.
The attack, reportedly carried out by armed individuals believed to be illegal miners, highlights the growing dangers faced by security personnel and environmental officers working to combat illegal mining activities.
Speaking on the issue, Minister Buah condemned the violent assault and reiterated the need for a united front in tackling illegal mining, which continues to devastate the country’s water bodies, forests, and farmlands.
He called on local communities, traditional leaders, law enforcement agencies, and civil society organizations to actively support the government’s efforts in eradicating the menace.
“The fight against galamsey is not just a government responsibility—it is a national fight. We all have a duty to protect our natural resources for future generations.
The safety of our officers must also be prioritized, and we will not tolerate such barbaric attacks on those enforcing the law,” he stated.
The minister assured that the government would intensify measures to curb illegal mining, including the deployment of additional security personnel and the use of modern surveillance technology.
He also pledged to provide the necessary medical support for the injured officer and ensure that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice.
Meanwhile, security agencies have launched an investigation into the incident, vowing to crack down on illegal mining hotspots and strengthen protections for enforcement officers operating in high-risk areas.
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