Coalition Against Galamsey petitions IGP to investigate Aowin MP over illegal mining allegations

The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey has written to formally request an immediate and thorough criminal investigation into allegations that the Honourable Member of Parliament for Aowin Constituency, Oscar Larbi, is engaged in illegal mining (galamsey).

If substantiated, they said, these allegations would amount to serious criminal offences under Ghanaian law, including violations of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), the Environmental Protection Act, and other relevant statutes.

The development is occasioned by the ongoing destruction of the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve in the Aowin Municipality, Western North Region, which is being fuelled by illegal mining activities.

Reports indicate that illegal miners have overrun the reserve, causing significant forest loss.

In response, the Aowin Traditional Council held a press conference on 27th January 2025, during which they accused the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Aowin Constituency of involvement in the illegal mining operations that are devastating the once-thriving forest.

Details of the destruction, along with allegations against the MP and his rebuttal, are documented in published reports, which are accessible at his link https://3news.com/news/aowin-traditional-council-accuses-mp-of-engaging-in-galamsey/ .

Additionally, video coverage of the accusations has been widely broadcast by prominent media outlets, including Multimedia and Media General, on Joy News and TV3.

It is important to afford the chiefs and the MP such an opportunity in the search for solutions to end galamsey, in keeping with His Excellency John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to this end.

In a statement, the group said that “Illegal mining has become an existential threat to Ghana, leading to severe environmental degradation, the destruction of critical water bodies, food insecurity, and significant health risks due to mercury and cyanide contamination.
In light of the above, we urge the Ghana Police Service to: Launch an Independent Investigation into the Honourable MP’s alleged involvement in illegal mining activities. Collaborate with relevant agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Forestry Commission and the Minerals Commission to obtain necessary evidence. Prosecute any violations under Ghanaian law to ensure justice is served and deter future abuses by public officials.

“We request a prompt response outlining the steps your office intends to take on this matter. Failure to act promptly could lead to further environmental degradation and loss of public trust. Our organizations remain committed to supporting lawful and sustainable environmental governance in Ghana and will closely monitor developments on this issue.”

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