Failed officers at galamsey-wrecked areas to be replaced by commanders: Interior Minister

Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak announced changes for police commanders.

These commanders, stationed in illegal mining areas, will be reassigned soon. This move aims to strengthen the fight against illegal mining, known as galamsey.

During a meeting with Islamic and Zongo leaders at Asawase Central Mosque, he explained the reasons for this change. Many commanders have overstayed their posts without making significant progress.

New commanders will replace those transferred. If they do not show improvement within three months, they will also be reshuffled.

The minister noted that some police commanders allegedly conspired with illegal miners. This has weakened efforts to combat galamsey activities.

To tackle this issue, Mr. Muntaka emphasized tracking vehicle chassis numbers at illegal sites. This will help identify owners who will face legal consequences.

He also mentioned that foreigners involved in galamsey would be deported. This includes Chinese and Indian nationals engaged in fraudulent activities.

Since taking office, about 107 foreigners have been deported, including 92 Chinese nationals. Today, 13 Chinese individuals were arrested and will also be deported.

His priority is to deport these foreign nationals rather than prosecute them. This approach avoids lengthy court proceedings.

Mr. Muntaka has communicated with the Chinese and Indian Ambassadors about security clearance for their citizens before entering Ghana.

In 2024 alone, over 7,000 Chinese and 8,000 Indians requested residential permits in Ghana. To reduce these numbers, he proposed a minimum investment of $200,000 for eligibility.

Additionally, the government plans mass re-registration of small firearms held by citizens through digital means. This effort aims to locate unregistered guns for public safety.

The exercise will follow intensive swoops to ensure society is free from unregistered firearms.