Galamsey: Atewa West to set up mining taskforce amid surge in illegal mining

The Atewa West District Security Council in the Eastern Region plans to form a specialized mining task force. This initiative aims to tackle illegal mining in the district. The council is working with the Minerals Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). They are gathering data on all licensed miners in Atewa West.

The new task force will enforce mining regulations and ensure site reclamation. It will also focus on illegal mining activities, especially those involving foreign nationals. Personnel from the Ghana Police Service, Minerals Commission, EPA, and Ghana Immigration Service will be included.

Amo Anom Johnson is the Chairman of the District Security Council. He shared details about this initiative during a site inspection on May 29. He stated they are auditing mining sites to identify un-reclaimed areas. These abandoned sites pose risks to local communities.

Johnson emphasized the serious negative impact of illegal mining on residents. He noted that foreign nationals are involved in these activities as well. Therefore, it is crucial to form a task force with representatives from relevant agencies.

Meanwhile, the EPA plans to crack down on illegal mining in specific areas soon. This includes the Atewa Forest Reserve and along the Birim and Densu Rivers. The EPA confirmed that no permits have been issued for mining in these locations.

Any ongoing mining activities there are considered illegal and will be stopped. The EPA assured that they would take action against those mining near water bodies soon. They will collaborate with the newly formed task force for effective enforcement.