Lands Minister declares war on galamsey in forests, rivers

Lands Minister Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah has vowed to crack down on illegal mining, warning that no one—regardless of political ties—will be spared if they mine in water bodies or forest reserves.

Touring the Offin-Shelterbelt forest reserve in Ashanti, he led a joint military-police task force to evict miners and seize 15 excavators.

Buah condemned the destruction of vital resources, emphasizing that illegal mining threatens livelihoods and survival. He urged young miners to follow legal pathways but stressed that the government will not tolerate violations.

He also backed repealing L.I. 2463, which permits mining in forest reserves, ensuring even the President cannot authorize mining in restricted zones.

Several individuals have been arrested as enforcement intensifies.