The government’s fight against illegal mining, widely known as galamsey, has entered a critical stage with over 600 suspects currently facing trial for their alleged involvement in the activity.
This was disclosed by the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, during a high-level stakeholder forum on illegal mining held in Accra on Friday, October 3.
Dr. Ayine explained that the prosecutions are spread across 65 separate dockets, many of which involve multiple defendants.
He noted that the scale of the cases is significant, pointing out that some dockets cover as many as 10 or more accused persons.
In one instance in the Western North Region, 28 suspects are being prosecuted under a single charge sheet. By his estimate, the 65 dockets account for about 600 individuals currently standing trial.
The scale of the problem underscores the urgency with which authorities are approaching the issue. Data from the Water Resources Commission shows that illegal mining has already destroyed over 50,000 hectares of forest and polluted major rivers such as the Pra, Ankobra, and Offin.
The Ghana Chamber of Mines further estimates that galamsey contributes around 30 percent of the country’s gold output, yet it has cost the state millions in lost revenue while leaving behind severe environmental damage.
The human impact is equally troubling. A 2022 report by the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources revealed that more than 70 percent of rural communities in mining areas now depend on water tankers as a result of contaminated local water sources.
In response, the Attorney-General emphasized the government’s determination to strengthen investigations and close loopholes that have previously allowed suspects to escape conviction.
He told the forum, which brought together chiefs, civil society representatives, security agencies, and mining sector stakeholders, that his office was committed to ensuring more effective prosecutions.
President John Dramani Mahama, who convened the event, described the galamsey crisis as a national emergency that demands cooperation across multiple sectors. He stressed that law enforcement must go hand in hand with community involvement and the promotion of responsible mining practices.
The Attorney-General’s Department is expected to continue working closely with the police, the Environmental Protection Agency, and other relevant bodies to ensure that the cases in court are handled thoroughly.
Source: Adomonline
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