Security analyst Andrews Asiedu Tetteh has alleged that about 80 per cent of individuals and agencies tasked with fighting illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, have been compromised.
According to the analyst, the alleged situation has weakened efforts by the government and security agencies to tackle illegal mining, which continues to pose environmental and economic concerns in Ghana.
Mr Tetteh claimed that personnel from various institutions responsible for enforcing laws against illegal mining are allegedly failing to prevent the activities from continuing. He mentioned security agencies and other state institutions among those he believes have been affected.
The analyst made the allegations during an interview, where he expressed concerns about the effectiveness of measures introduced by successive governments to address illegal mining.
He argued that despite the deployment of security personnel and other interventions, the galamsey menace remains a significant challenge in several parts of the country.
Mr Tetteh further alleged that some officials visit areas where illegal mining is taking place and demand or accept money from operators, thereby allowing the activities to continue.
He said the alleged conduct of some officials makes it difficult for authorities to achieve meaningful progress in the fight against illegal mining.
The analyst also criticised both the previous and current administrations over their approach to the galamsey crisis. In his view, successive governments have not done enough to bring the problem under control despite repeated promises and interventions.
His comments come at a time when illegal mining remains a major public concern in Ghana, particularly because of its impact on water bodies, forests and other natural resources.
The government and various state institutions have introduced several measures over the years to combat the practice, including the deployment of security personnel to affected communities and increased enforcement activities.
Mr Tetteh acknowledged recent efforts to establish military camps in communities affected by illegal mining but suggested that stronger measures were required.
He also questioned why a State of Emergency had not been declared over the galamsey situation, arguing that the scale of the problem warranted more decisive action from the authorities.
The analyst further raised concerns about the advice being provided to government on the issue, accusing security advisers of failing to adequately communicate the seriousness of the situation.
His remarks have added to the ongoing public debate over how Ghana can effectively address illegal mining and protect its environment.
However, the claims made by Mr Tetteh are allegations and do not establish that 80 per cent of anti-galamsey personnel or agencies have actually engaged in wrongdoing. Any specific allegations against individuals would require independent investigation and appropriate evidence.
The comments nevertheless highlight concerns about accountability, enforcement and the effectiveness of Ghana’s efforts to combat illegal mining.
As the government continues its fight against galamsey, questions remain about whether existing measures are sufficient to stop illegal mining and ensure that officials responsible for enforcing the law carry out their duties effectively.
Source: Thepressradio.com
