Manasseh Azure questions Ghana’s approach to foreigners involved in illegal mining

Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni has raised serious concerns. He highlights a troubling disparity in how Ghana treats foreign nationals involved in illegal mining.

On April 9, 2025, he shared a post on social media. In it, he recalled data from the Ghana Prisons Service obtained in 2021. This data revealed that only one Chinese national was serving time in Ghana. The specific offence of this inmate was not disclosed.

Manasseh found this revelation startling. Many Chinese nationals have been arrested for illegal mining over the years. This activity has harmed forests, polluted water bodies, and threatened national security.

In contrast, hundreds of Ghanaians and other Africans face jail time for similar crimes. He mentioned Nigerian nationals who received 20-year sentences for illegal mining. They were also ordered to be deported after serving their terms.

Manasseh argues that this situation reflects an unjust system. He questioned why a Nigerian would face 20 years while a Chinese counterpart goes free. “If this happened elsewhere, we would call it racism,” he stated.

His comments follow a statement from Interior Minister Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka. The Minister confirmed that Ghana will repatriate foreigners involved in illegal mining instead of prosecuting them. This policy aims to save time and resources while protecting the environment and citizens.

Critics like Manasseh argue that this raises questions about justice and equity. Illegal mining is classified as a threat to national security in Ghana.

“Mr. President, is this how you swore to defend this country?” Manasseh challenged in his post.