The Administrator for the Minerals Development Fund, Dr. Hannah Louisa Bissiw-Kotei, has disclosed that she does not inform the Interior and Defense Ministries prior to conducting operations at illegal mining (galamsey) sites.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Burning Issues program, Dr. Bissiw explained that the two ministries only become aware of her visits after her activities are reported in the media. She cited concerns for her safety and that of her team as the reason for moving quietly without prior notice.
“No, I will not tell anybody until I finish because when I inform them, they may tell others—maybe not in a bad way—but that could expose my move, and those involved may lay ambush and kill me,” she said.
Dr. Bissiw’s comments come amid criticism from some quarters accusing her of overstepping her mandate by personally storming galamsey sites and arresting illegal miners.
Responding to the allegations, she clarified that the Minerals Development Fund Act authorizes her to take actions to prevent illegal mining activities and promote development in mining communities.
She added, “We have an act which guides our activities, and whatever I’m doing falls within the act. Everybody is aware, including the President, so I do not need to seek permission from anyone.”
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