adverts
The Media Coalition Against Galamsey has strongly criticised a recent ruling by the Enchi Magistrate Court that ordered the release of impounded excavators seized from illegal miners in the Boin River Forest Reserve.
Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Wednesday, April 2, the coalition’s convener, Ing. Kenneth Ashigbey, condemned the ruling as “bizarre and counterproductive” to the ongoing national effort to curb illegal mining, known locally as galamsey.
The incident that sparked public outcry occurred on March 23, 2025, when Wisdom Amuzu and three accomplices were arrested for illegal mining activities within the forest reserve. The operation, conducted by officers from the Forestry Commission in collaboration with the Enchi Police, led to the seizure of two excavators used in the illicit activity.
adverts
However, despite the clear evidence of illegal mining, Magistrate Lawrence Buenor Buer granted bail to the suspects and directed the Forestry Commission to release the seized excavators to Amuzu, allowing him to evacuate the equipment to a location of his choice.
Ing. Ashigbey expressed deep concern over the ruling, stating that it undermines Ghana’s fight against illegal mining and contradicts existing laws that mandate the confiscation and forfeiture of equipment used in galamsey operations.
“The Mining Act clearly states that equipment seized during illegal mining operations must not be returned to the perpetrators, especially in cases involving forest reserves,” Ashigbey said. “This ruling sets a dangerous precedent that could embolden illegal miners and weaken the efforts of law enforcement agencies.”
The ruling has sparked widespread condemnation from environmentalists, civil society groups, and concerned citizens who fear that the decision could derail the progress made in fighting illegal mining.
Ing. Ashigbey urged the Judicial Service and the Attorney General to intervene and rectify the situation, stressing that judicial integrity and consistency are crucial in the battle against galamsey.
Illegal mining continues to devastate Ghana’s environment, polluting water bodies, destroying forest reserves, and threatening the livelihoods of communities. Despite intensified government efforts, including military interventions and public education, the menace persists, fuelled by weak law enforcement and corruption.
“We must hold all stakeholders accountable and ensure that judicial decisions do not sabotage the hard work of those fighting on the ground,” Ashigbey stated.
The Media Coalition Against Galamsey has vowed to intensify its advocacy to ensure that illegal miners and their collaborators face the full force of the law. The coalition also called on Ghanaians to remain vigilant and continue supporting efforts to protect the country’s natural resources.
Click the link Puretvonline.com | WhatsApp Channel to join the whatsapp channel
GOT A STORY?
Contact/WhatsApp: +233243201960 or Email: manuelnkansah33@gmail.com
