Illegal mining proceeds allegedly funding Bawku conflict – Forestry Commission

Nana Kwabena Bosompim, the Western Regional Director of the Forestry Commission, has made serious allegations. He claims that illegal mining proceeds are funding the conflict in Bawku, Upper East Region.

Bosompim stated that some miners in Abrewa Ne Nkran confessed to sending money home. They claim this money supports relatives involved in the Bawku conflict.

“Most miners we meet are not from the Western Region,” he said. Many come from neighboring areas like Upper East and Northern Regions. Some admitted they mine to send funds back for the conflict.

He also mentioned that some illegal miners belong to WhatsApp groups. These groups coordinate financial contributions to sustain the conflict.

“They have groups like ‘Bawku Citizens Outside’ on their phones,” he claimed. They engage in galamsey and send money specifically for this purpose.

Bosompim alleged that pressure is placed on miners to contribute. Threats are made against their families if they do not send money.

“Some told us their families would be attacked if they failed to pay,” he added. This indicates that illegal mining proceeds fund violence in Bawku.

The illegal settlement was destroyed over the weekend. However, JoyNews reports that some individuals are rebuilding it.

The Bawku conflict has recently intensified, resulting in at least two police officer deaths. Over time, this conflict has caused hundreds of deaths with annual violent outbreaks.

In response to this violence, the Asantehene plans to resume mediation efforts after Easter.

These allegations about illegal mining financing raise concerns about national security and unregulated mining activities in Ghana.