The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG) has condemned what it describes as a “shameful and unlawful” attack by National Security operatives on three Forestry Commission district offices in the Ashanti Region.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday, July 29, more than 15 heavily armed agents allegedly stormed the Forestry Commission offices in Bekwai, Nkawie, and Offinso, forcibly shutting down operations and harassing staff.
The Coalition said the attacks were meant to intimidate officials working to combat illegal mining in seven forest reserves.
“This act is not only an abuse of institutional power but a grave breach of the rule of law,” GCAG stated.
“It reflects a troubling trend of politically motivated interference in the work of state institutions protecting Ghana’s environment.”
GCAG is demanding immediate action from President John Dramani Mahama, the Ministers for Lands and Natural Resources and Interior, and the National Security Coordinator.
Among its demands are the prosecution of those involved, the dismissal of implicated operatives, and the interdiction of the Ashanti Regional National Security Coordinator pending an independent investigation.
The Coalition also criticized the appointment of politically connected individuals without technical expertise to the Forestry Commission, calling for a halt to such practices.
GCAG warned that the failure to act decisively would further erode public trust in government institutions and weaken efforts to protect Ghana’s forests.
The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey is a multi-sectoral alliance comprising media, civil society, religious, and professional groups united against illegal mining.
Source: Adomonline.com
ALSO READ:
