Joseph Osei-Owusu, Ghana’s First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Member of Parliament for Bekwai, has reignited the debate on combating illegal mining. Osei-Owusu advocated for a radical ‘shoot to kill’ policy against galamsey operators.
Galamsey, or illegal mining, has become a longstanding issue in Ghana, particularly in rural areas, where individuals and groups mine without proper permits or regard for environmental regulations.
The environmental impact of galamsey has been devastating, with entire river systems contaminated by chemicals such as mercury and cyanide used in the extraction process.
The destruction of forests and farmlands has exacerbated concerns about the sustainability of Ghana’s natural resources.
Osei-Owusu’s proposal aims to deter illegal miners by authorizing law enforcement personnel to shoot on sight if they are caught engaging in mining activities.
He cited difficulties in apprehending miners, who often dive into rivers to evade arrest, making prosecution challenging.
The First Deputy Speaker emphasized that drastic measures are necessary to confront the extreme problem.
Ghanaian authorities have struggled to curb galamsey despite efforts, including arrests, equipment seizures, and community engagement.
Osei-Owusu’s statement has ignited debate on effective solutions, with critics arguing for alternative approaches prioritizing education, economic empowerment, and community-led initiatives.
