The Eastern Regional Minister and Chairperson of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), Rita Akosua Awatey, has inaugurated a nine-member task force aimed at tackling illegal mining activities, commonly known as “Galamsey,” in the region.
The task force has been tasked with a broad mandate to identify and address illegal mining operations, ensuring strict adherence to laws and regulations.
During the inauguration, Rita Awatey emphasized that the committee must operate without fear or favor, stressing that their work would be pivotal in safeguarding the environment and promoting human security. “This task force must work with a difference, carrying out your mandate with the utmost determination,” she stated.
She reiterated the government’s commitment to preserving natural resources, stating that forests and water bodies must remain “no-go areas” for illegal miners.
The Regional Minister described illegal mining as a major security threat and environmental hazard, posing risks to both the ecosystem and human lives.
The task force will focus on identifying illegal mining sites, ensuring compliance with the law, making arrests, prosecuting offenders, and seizing mining equipment.
Additionally, they will work to prevent the contamination of water bodies and the destruction of forests.
The Regional Minister Rita Awatey, called for community support in gathering intelligence to effectively combat illegal mining activities, underscoring the importance of licensed mining operations that adhere to reclamation processes.
She also addressed the controversial issue of excavator burning, clarifying that the government believes seized excavators should be repurposed for use in District Assemblies rather than being destroyed.
The nine-member task force includes representatives from various security agencies, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Attorney-General’s office and others from allied Institutions.
Source: 3news
Discussion about this post