"We will not relent on galamsey fights": Western Region Forestry Commission boss

Western Region Forestry Commission Warns Illegal Miners to Leave Forest Reserves

The Western Region Forestry Commission is taking action against illegal mining. This practice, known as Galamsey, has become a serious issue. Nana Poku Bosompim, the regional manager, says illegal miners now have advanced weapons. He believes the commission needs better resources to combat this problem.

Recently, the Forestry Commission conducted operations in slum areas. These included Abrewa Nne Nkran and Jerusalem near Wassa Nkran. The operations aimed to disrupt illegal mining activities in these regions.

Nana Poku Bosompim spoke with Yen.com.gh about the situation. He emphasized that forestry officials need protective gear like bulletproof vests and helmets. He noted that entering the forest at night can be dangerous without proper protection.

Bosompim suggested that discussions about arming the commission should begin soon. He believes this would help protect forest guards from armed illegal miners. Currently, these guards patrol with minimal equipment while facing well-armed perpetrators.

He expressed concern over the government's lack of action against Galamsey. According to him, inadequate resources hinder their efforts to fight illegal mining effectively. If properly resourced, he believes their team could better confront these miners.

Bosompim stated that providing protective gear would boost morale among forest guards. They would feel safer and more capable of defending themselves if attacked by illegal miners.

He also mentioned that an armored vehicle for their rapid response team could speed up operations against illegal mining activities. Despite limited resources, he praised military support during recent operations.

Bosompim warned all illegal miners in forest reserves to leave immediately. He stated clearly: "Get out." He emphasized there will be no negotiations with those polluting rivers and destroying forests.

He advised miners to obtain proper licenses for legal mining activities instead of continuing illegally. Recently, several pieces of mining equipment linked to a prominent politician were seized during an operation targeting Akonta Mining.

This company is owned by Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi. He has faced allegations of involvement in illegal mining for some time now. The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources announced that Akonta Mining would lose its rights to mine in Ghana due to these issues.