Copyright ghananewss
By Clara Mlano Ghana’s battle against galamsey has reached a critical juncture, with the government launching plans to permanently deploy NAIMOS personnel nationwide to tackle illegal mining. A 307-member Field Task Force, comprising personnel from the military, police, and other security agencies, will adopt a zero-tolerance stance against galamsey, a menace authorities say poses an existential threat to Ghana’s environment and national survival. Already, the task force has scored early wins, reclaiming nine forests from illegal miners and restoring degraded lands. With forests and water bodies now designated as security zones, any unauthorized activity will be treated as a national security breach. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the National Anti-illegal Mining Operation Secretariat, field task force training at the Armour Training School, in Sunyani, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, cautioned that political interference will have no place in the new crackdown. “The battle has just begun, and no one breaking the law will be spared especially those seeking to profit from illegal mining. We are completely restructuring the licensing regime, and the new system will not grant favours to political comrades.” Driving the point further, he declared: “There is no law in Ghana that permits anyone to mine in our rivers. We have also determined that the 100 meters from the water mining completely changes to 1 kilometer.” Deputy Director of Special Operations at the Presidency, Mr. Mustapha Gbandi, made clear government’s resolve. “This is the end of the chapter of galamsey in Ghana. Illegal mining is simply mining at the wrong places. It is time to reclaim our environment and secure our future.” Charging the new taskforce, he added, “You are a force undefeated, well-trained, capable, and you must deliver. In the bush and in the water bodies, there are no political party colours there” The move comes amid growing public frustration over the environmental and economic toll of galamsey from polluted rivers and poisoned farmlands to collapsing communities. Statistics from the Water Resources Commission show that over 60% of Ghana’s rivers are contaminated, threatening access to potable water for millions. Director of Operations for NAIMOS, Col. Dominic Buah, pointed at the uniqueness of the deployment: “This is a multi-agency task force of the military, police, immigration, intelligence, narcotics, and national security all working as one unit. We are equipped, prepared, and determined to protect Ghana’s forests and water bodies.” Civil society organisations have cautiously welcomed the announcement. Daryl Bosu, Deputy Director of ARocha Ghana, said the public must remain vigilant. “We are with government all the way because we know we can win this fight. But we will keep a watchful eye to ensure accountability and prevent compromise.” For the government, the campaign is also a test of credibility. NAIMOS’ deployment could be a game-changer if sustained, given past crackdowns’ mixed results due to political compromise and lax enforcement. With early successes already evident, hopes are high for a decisive victory against galamsey. Source link
