Foreigners engaged in galamsey to face immediate deportation – Ablakwa

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has reaffirmed the government's commitment to deport foreign nationals involved in illegal mining, known as galamsey.

While speaking to the Ghanaian community in Lagos, Nigeria, he emphasized President Mahama's strong stance on protecting natural resources.

“President Mahama has said he will not tolerate mining in our rivers or forests,” he stated.

Ablakwa announced that a military operation against illegal miners would start soon.

“In the next few days, we’re going to round people up and prosecute them,” he mentioned regarding the upcoming military action.

He noted that many deportations have already occurred but were not widely reported.

“Many deportations have been carried out; we just haven’t advertised them,” he explained.

The Minister stressed the need to address repeat offenders who return after being cleared out by security operations.

He expressed confidence that government actions would significantly improve water quality in the country.

Ablakwa urged Ghanaians living in Nigeria to support the fight against illegal mining. He assured them that the government would take all necessary measures to resolve this issue.