Upper East Minister cracks down on galamsey in Naaga-Sakombiisi forest

The Upper East Regional Minister, Akamugri Donatus Atanga, on Friday spearheaded a coordinated anti-illegal mining operation in the Naaga-Sakombiisi forest, located within the Kasena-Nankana Municipality.

The operation was launched following a formal petition submitted by concerned members of the Naaga community, who raised the alarm over environmental degradation and public health risks caused by illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, in the area.

“I received a written petition from this community, Naaga-Sakombiisi, stating that some illegal mining, or galamsey, is taking place in their community. They reported it to the authorities but saw no action, which is why they came to the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) for intervention,” Minister Akamugri stated during the operation.

Ahead of the raid, the Minister visited several mining sites hidden within the forest, where three processing hubs for gold ore had been established. He expressed concern over the community’s exposure to hazardous chemicals and substances released during ore grinding.

“The community is worried because the grinding process releases harmful powder, polluting the area. They fear the health consequences,” he noted.

He further revealed that illegal mining operations have disrupted local livelihoods, with livestock deaths linked to plastic waste and chemicals left behind by miners.

“They rear animals, and the rubber and plastics used by the miners, when ingested by livestock, cause deaths, affecting their livelihoods,” he said.

Another alarming discovery was the illegal tapping of electricity by the miners from the community transformer, despite some residents lacking access to power. Similar activities have previously led to power shortages in nearby communities.

Akamugri reiterated the government’s stance on mining, clarifying that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration is not against mining in principle, but firmly opposes any form of exploitation that jeopardizes the environment and public well-being.

The post Upper East Minister cracks down on galamsey in Naaga-Sakombiisi forest first appeared on 3News.

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