President of the Small-Scale Miners Association, Michael Kojo Peprah, has described as misleading reports suggesting that he intervened to plead for clemency on behalf of illegal miners operating in the Desiri Forest in the Ahafo Ano North District of the Ashanti Region.
According to him, he merely inquired about a police operation, which led to his arrest.
In a viral video, Mr. Peprah is seen in handcuffs, with reports alleging he attempted to interfere in the activities of the police anti-galamsey task force.
“Acting as a responsible leader, I approached the scene to inquire about the operation and to verify the affiliation of the task force involved,” he explained.
He further noted that the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, during an earlier meeting with miners, had advised them to verify the legitimacy of persons undertaking such field operations.
“Contrary to the police’s claims, I did not obstruct any official duty or intervene on anyone’s behalf,” he emphasised.
In the video, a police officer alleged that some members of the community identified Mr. Peprah as the person behind the illegal activities.
He vehemently denied the allegation, stating that his presence in the area was related to political activities.
“If the people know me, it is because I was there to campaign as a member of the NDC Mining Committee, not as a miner interested in operating there,” he clarified.
Mr. Peprah was later released on police bail.
Source: Nana Yaw Gyimah
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