The government has warned that traditional leaders involved in illegal mining will be arrested and prosecuted.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources said while some chiefs are collaborating with authorities to promote responsible and sustainable mining, others have been found to be complicit in illegal mining operations.
Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah gave the warning during a visit to the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), where he presented logistics, including vehicles, to bolster the fight against galamsey.
He stressed that no individual, including chiefs, would be spared if found to be engaging in or aiding illegal mining.
“We have a long list of logistics that we must get to support NAIMOS. The government is doing everything possible to push the agenda of responsible mining.
“Very soon, in the coming weeks, you will see it clearly. I think we’re getting to a place where some of the evidence we’re getting is very clear. In communities where chiefs have made a vow to support the government’s responsible and sustainable mining, those communities are doing so. In a few instances, you actually see some chiefs who are neck deep in the act. We respect our chiefs and tradition, but if you are caught engaged in illegal mining, we will handcuff you in your clothes,” he warned
Source:Lovinghananews.com
