The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has urged the Ghana Police Service to provide the public with a clear update on ongoing investigations into the recent wave of attacks on journalists and officials leading the fight against illegal mining (galamsey).
Speaking at the 29th GJA Media Awards in Kumasi, the GJA President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfuor, called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to act decisively and ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice.
“The GJA demands that the Ghana Police Service brief the nation on the progress of investigations and leaves no stone unturned in identifying, arresting, and prosecuting all those responsible. We demand that briefing in the coming week, Mr. IGP,” Mr. Dwumfuor stated.
His comments follow a series of disturbing incidents involving violent attacks on journalists and anti-galamsey task force members in various parts of the country.
Mr. Dwumfuor referenced reports from the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) indicating that enforcement teams had recently come under armed assault during operations to curb illegal mining.
“Recently, during a briefing, I listened to the EPA boss recount how galamsey operators, aided by armed men in uniforms branded as CIDs, attacked enforcement teams with heavy weapons,” he revealed.
The GJA President also condemned the attack on the head of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Secretariat (NAIMOS), describing it as a serious challenge to state authority and national security.
“The GJA strongly condemns the cowardly attack on the NAIMOS boss. This act is not only a direct assault on the hardworking officers leading the fight against the destructive menace but also a grievous affront to the authority of the state and the rule of law,” he declared.
This year’s GJA Awards, themed “Safeguarding Ghana’s Future: The Role of the Media in Promoting Peace, Security and the Fight Against Galamsey,” emphasized the media’s essential role in defending public interest and promoting national development.
Mr. Dwumfuor explained that the theme reflected the pressing need for journalists to highlight and confront national challenges such as environmental degradation and insecurity.
“We believe the media will make the necessary impact to safeguard the future of Ghana,” he said, reaffirming the GJA’s commitment to responsible journalism, integrity, and the pursuit of justice.
The 29th GJA Media Awards recognized journalists who have demonstrated courage, innovation, and excellence, particularly in promoting peace, good governance, and environmental protection.
