Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has reaffirmed the government’s firm stance on illegal mining, announcing the immediate deportation of foreign nationals engaged in galamsey activities.
Addressing the Ghanaian community in Lagos, Nigeria, Ablakwa emphasized President Mahama’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources.
“President Mahama has made it clear—mining in our rivers and forest reserves will not be tolerated,” the Minister stressed.
He disclosed that a new military operation is set to launch shortly, aimed at identifying, arresting, and prosecuting those involved in illegal mining.
“In the coming days, we’ll be rounding up offenders and taking legal action,” he revealed.
Ablakwa also noted that several deportations have already been quietly executed, even though they haven’t been publicly highlighted.
“Many deportations have already taken place. We’ve just chosen not to publicize them,” he stated.
He further warned about repeat offenders who return to galamsey sites after they’ve been cleared, stressing the need for strict monitoring and enforcement.
The Minister expressed hope that full implementation of these measures will lead to improved water quality across affected regions.
He concluded with a heartfelt appeal to Ghanaians in Nigeria, urging them to support efforts back home to eliminate illegal mining and assuring them that the government is taking decisive steps to address the issue.
