The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey has called for the immediate prosecution of Akonta Mining Company Limited for their involvement in illegal mining in the Tano Nimri Forest Reserve.
In a statement signed by its Convener, Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, the Coalition expressed “shock and disappointment” over what it described as government inaction.
The Coalition accused the government of failing to act on clear evidence of the devastation caused by Akonta Mining.
“This is the time to send a strong and unambiguous message to politically exposed persons that impunity will not be tolerated, whether under the cover of political association, high social status, or any other privilege.
The fight against galamsey must be fair, fearless, and uncompromising. The government must prove its commitment by ensuring that justice is served swiftly and without exception,” the statement noted.
The concerns of the group follow a revelation by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, and the subsequent revocation of the company’s license in April 2025.
The Minister cited “overwhelming evidence” of illegal mining and criminal syndication as the basis for the decision.
Mr. Buah added that the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dominic Ayine, had been briefed and had taken over the investigations.
In this regard, the Coalition noted that the Ministry’s findings provided sufficient grounds for prosecution — yet no legal action has been taken.
They warned that the failure to prosecute the company and any complicit government officials sends a dangerous message of impunity and selective justice.
The Coalition has therefore called for the arrest and prosecution of officials from the Minerals Commission, Forestry Commission, and security services who may have aided, abetted, or negligently enabled Akonta Mining’s illegal operations.
“The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey recalls the government’s unmistakable promises to fight the menace of galamsey and restore the balance of Ghana’s ecology. While we acknowledge that the government has done well to freeze the accounts of Akonta Mining Ltd, which confirms its recognition of the company’s involvement in illegal activities, there is no justification for the continued delay in prosecuting those responsible.
We strongly urge the government to arrest and prosecute the Managing Director/CEO, all Directors of Akonta Mining Ltd, and any culpable government officials without further delay, as a clear testament of its commitment to fighting galamsey. The government must act decisively in accordance with Act 995 to demonstrate that no one is above the law,” the statement read in parts.
Meanwhile, Akonta Mining described the Minister’s comments as “reckless and baseless,” calling the move “a clear breach of natural justice and a politically motivated act.”
The company insisted that it holds valid leases and permits from the Minerals Commission and operates legally in Samreboi and Abokoase — not in the Tano Nimri Forest Reserve.
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Read the full statement below: