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The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has issued a firm two-week ultimatum to individuals engaged in illegal mining within forests and waterways, warning them to vacate these areas or face severe legal consequences.
Dr. Amoakohene emphasised his administration’s unwavering commitment to preserving the region’s natural resources and supporting President John Mahama’s vision for responsible mining practices.
“Anyone mining in forest reserves must vacate immediately. We are giving them two weeks. If you fail to leave, you will face the full wrath of the law,” he warned.
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The minister also vowed to eliminate illegal mining operations affecting water bodies, stressing that his administration is fully prepared to take decisive action.
“If you have any illegal mining investment in water bodies and are polluting them, you have two weeks to halt all activities. We will deploy a team to restore order in the mining sector,” he declared.
The Ashanti Region remains one of the worst-affected areas by illegal mining, with forests and rivers suffering devastating environmental damage despite previous government interventions.
Dr. Amoakohene assured that his office is working on a comprehensive strategy to combat the menace effectively, collaborating with other regional ministers whose territories share tributaries of affected river bodies.
“We are adopting a holistic approach to curb illegal mining and protect our environment,” he stated.
Illegal mining has also led to increased security risks, with abandoned mining pits posing grave dangers to local communities.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has already begun cracking down on illegal miners by seizing mining equipment from unlicensed operations.
Meanwhile, the minister addressed the recent deadly clash between the military and illegal miners in Obuasi, which resulted in nine deaths.
He assured that thorough investigations are underway to ensure accountability.
“The president has issued a white paper mandating a full investigation into the deaths. This is a necessary step in ensuring justice and protecting lives,” Dr. Amoakohene stated.
With the two-week deadline in place, all eyes are now on the government’s next move in its renewed fight against illegal mining in the Ashanti Region.
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