Mahama Orders Arrest and Prosecution of Illegal Miners in Crackdown on Galamsey
President John Dramani Mahama has launched a decisive crackdown on illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, ordering the immediate arrest and prosecution of offenders operating within Ghana’s forest reserves.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony for the third batch of ministers at Jubilee House on Thursday, January 30, 2025, President Mahama assigned key ministers—including the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, the Minister for the Interior, the Attorney General, and the Minister for Justice—to take swift action against illegal miners.
“I urge them to take immediate steps to ensure the arrest and prosecution of any persons or group of persons engaged in this illegality,” the President emphasized.
No Exemptions for Government Officials
The directive comes amid allegations that the government had approved mining activities in protected forest areas—claims that the administration has strongly denied. President Mahama made it clear that no government official is above the law, warning that any member of his administration found engaging in galamsey would face severe consequences.
“As Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, you’ll be responsible for protecting the environment from destructive galamsey activities and ensuring the effective management of our natural resources,” he told the newly appointed minister.
Ban on Mining in Forest Reserves
In a further move to protect Ghana’s environment, President Mahama reaffirmed his government’s commitment to preserving the country’s forest reserves. He announced an outright ban on issuing new mining leases in these areas and ordered the immediate cancellation of all previously granted leases by the former administration.
“For the avoidance of doubt, this government has not given any person or group permission to engage in any form of mining within our forest reserves,” he declared.
This firm stance signals the administration’s renewed determination to combat illegal mining, curb environmental destruction, and safeguard Ghana’s natural resources for future generations.
