Full text: Lands Minister updates on gov't sustained fight against illegal mining

Good afternoon, members of the press.

Today, I want to update you on our fight against illegal mining. Under President John Dramani Mahama's leadership, we are committed to this cause. Illegal mining harms both the environment and humanity. We promised to keep Ghanaians informed about our progress.

Last month, we pledged to trace the financiers of illegal mining operations. Today, I am pleased to announce a significant breakthrough in this effort.

We have uncovered serious issues with Akonta Mining Company Ltd. This company is legally registered and has a government lease for responsible mining off-reserve. However, they lack an entry permit for the Samreboi forest reserve in the Western North Region. Investigations show that Akonta Mining has abused its lease.

In August 2022, the Forestry Commission and Ghana Police arrested individuals linked to Akonta Mining for encroaching on protected reserves. The case was sent to Accra for further action but has seen no progress since then.

Akonta Mining has trespassed into protected areas and operates like a criminal syndicate. They sell access to the Aboi Forest Reserve for GH₵300,000 per concession. Illegal miners work under Akonta’s protection, damaging the River Tano and nearby forests without consequence.

Our undercover team investigated these operations and found alarming details. A representative named Mr. Ayisi negotiates fees and grants illegal access on behalf of Akonta Mining. Concessions are subleased to individuals like “Mr. Henry” and “Shark,” who oversee destruction in the Aboi Forest Reserve.

As part of their agreement, illegal miners pay weekly royalties of 250 grams of gold to Akonta Mining’s collaborators.

This criminal enterprise thrives due to collusion with some forestry officers and security personnel. Part of the GH₵300,000 fee goes to Akonta Mining while others receive cuts as service charges for protection from raids.

Illegal miners operate without any control or oversight from authorities. They continue their destructive activities under Akonta Mining's cover.

Residents report that Akonta Mining uses force against local farmers' lands and crops.

On Good Friday (April 17, 2025), an intelligence-led operation targeted six illegal mining sites linked to Akonta Mining.

The raid in Compartment 49 lasted 12 hours and resulted in:

- 51 arrests (8 Chinese nationals; 39 Ghanaian men; 4 Ghanaian women)
- Seizure of about 30 excavators
- Recovery of two pump-action guns
- Confiscation of vehicles including two Toyota Hilux pickups

All suspects are now in custody in Accra pending prosecution.

Given the evidence gathered, I have authorized immediate revocation of Akonta Mining's lease by the Minerals Commission.

I have also directed that forestry officials involved be suspended during investigations. Security agencies will investigate officers connected with Akonta Mining in this forest reserve.

The Attorney-General is now overseeing these investigations for further action.

Akonta Mining does not have permission to mine in Tano Nimiri Forest reserve; their activities are illegal and criminal. The Mahama government will ensure accountability for this company.

This serves as a warning: large-scale mining concession holders must not use legal leases as cover for environmental destruction. We know your schemes — we will pursue you!

To youth involved in illegal mining: There are better alternatives available! We stand ready to support you if you choose them. But those who defy us will face severe consequences!

To media members and Ghanaians: Your vigilance is essential! Report any illegal mining activities; we will take action!

Let me be clear: We will not stop until galamsey is eradicated completely! Our waters must run blue again; our forests must thrive once more! We will hold every financier accountable publicly!

Thank you! I am now open to your questions.