Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has announced a new government strategy to combat illegal mining—commonly referred to as galamsey—through the permanent deployment of military personnel in affected areas.
In an interview on Accra-based Citi TV, the Abura-Asebu-Kwamankese MP stated that the initiative will target all 44 known galamsey-prone locations across the country.
“Previously, security forces would carry out operations and then withdraw, which allowed illegal miners to return. This time, the military will remain on site permanently,” he said.
He further emphasized that the strategy aims to protect Ghana’s water bodies, noting that “every river in the country will have a permanent military presence.”
The announcement follows mounting public concern over environmental degradation and criticism of President John Dramani Mahama’s decision not to declare a state of emergency over the galamsey crisis.
