By Love Wilhelmina Abanonave
A clinical psychologist has called on President John Dramani Mahama to take firm action against illegal mining operators, widely known in Ghana as galamsey.
Speaking on the GTV Breakfast Show, Daniel Bruce urged the President to use the authority vested in his office to clamp down on those involved in the practice, which continues to pose a significant threat to the environment and local communities.
Mr Bruce’s comments follow the decision by Lands Minister Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah to order the immediate revocation of Akonta Mining Company’s lease. The move comes after what the minister described as “overwhelming evidence” of illegal mining activities by the company.
The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako — popularly known as Chairman Wontumi — has denied the allegations. He insists that Akonta Mining holds valid legal permits and has ceased all operations for some time.
In response to the unfolding controversy, Mr Bruce argued that those behind illegal mining operations should face the full force of the law. “The miners were sent there by someone, so that person must be arrested,” he said, adding that such action would serve as a deterrent to others.
Chairman Wontumi has rejected the Lands Minister’s claims, comparing his company’s documentation to that of AngloGold Ashanti, one of the country’s leading legal mining firms.
