- Security has apprehended fake operatives at mining sites
- The group pledges to back sustainable mining practices
- The Association calls for government intervention
The Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners has issued a warning to individuals pretending to be military or national security personnel, accusing them of extorting money and harassing its members under the pretense of tackling illegal mining activities.
The Association claims that some individuals, allegedly linked to the ruling National Democratic Congress, have been visiting mining sites owned by its members, demanding money while pretending to combat illegal mining. Reports from the Amansie region continue to flood in, with members expressing frustration over the ongoing issue.
In a press conference held in Kumasi on March 19, Michael Adu Gyamfi, the Ashanti Regional Secretary of the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners, called on the President, Ashanti Regional Minister, and other relevant authorities to step in immediately to prevent potential conflict between their members and these individuals.
“Every president who has led the country has had good intentions in fighting illegal mining. However, some party operatives within the ruling party have contributed to the failures in the fight against illegal mining,” he stated. He further urged the President, Ashanti Regional Minister, and National Security Coordinator in the region to take swift action against the culprits.
“We are informing the President, Ashanti Regional Minister, and National Security Coordinator to be alert and ensure that those engaging in such wrongful actions are addressed. If these incidents continue, there is a risk of a confrontation that could lead to casualties.”
He emphasized that the Association is committed to supporting the government in ensuring sustainable mining practices and environmental protection.
“We want to assure the government that the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners is dedicated to supporting every meaningful government effort to promote sustainable small-scale mining and environmental conservation,” he said.
Meanwhile, Captain (Retired) John Kwame Jabari, the Acting Ashanti Regional Security Coordinator, confirmed that recent arrests had been made in connection with the situation.
“We are aware of the incidents. In the past two weeks, we’ve encountered separate cases where individuals have been impersonating soldiers or national security officers at mining sites. Whenever we catch wind of such activities, we work with the local police to take action. We’ve been able to arrest some of these individuals with the police’s help,” he added.
