I didn't inherit any galamsey drones, ask Minerals Commission, IMCIM - Abu Jinapor

Former Lands and Natural Resources Minister Samuel Abu Jinapor has addressed concerns about drones. These drones were allegedly procured to combat illegal mining, known as galamsey. Jinapor stated he did not receive the drones or any related documents during his time in office.

His comments follow remarks from current Lands Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah. Buah mentioned he has not seen the drones purchased by the Akufo-Addo government. He emphasized technology's role in fighting galamsey but noted he cannot find the drones since taking office.

In an interview with Joy FM, Jinapor clarified that these drones were reportedly bought in 2018. The purchase was made by the now-defunct Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM), led by Prof Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng.

Jinapor explained there was no formal handover regarding the drones when he became minister. He stated, “There was no handover note suggesting that drones had been bought.” He also confirmed that no drones were handed over to him.

He advised directing inquiries about the drones to the Minerals Commission. This body is responsible for mining records and should have relevant information. Alternatively, questions can be directed to the leadership of IMCIM.

When asked if he had questioned IMCIM about the drones during his tenure, Jinapor affirmed this. He said, "I made queries and enquiries." However, he found no records of these drones at that time. He concluded that all related questions should be answered by IMCIM’s leadership.