Mahama orders arrest and prosecution of Illegal miners in forest reserves

President John Dramani Mahama has directed the immediate arrest and prosecution of individuals involved in illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, within Ghana’s forest reserves.

During the swearing-in ceremony for the third batch of ministers on Thursday, January 30, President Mahama assigned the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, the Minister for the Interior, the Attorney General, and the Minister for Justice to take swift action against those engaged in the unlawful activity.

“I urge them to take immediate measures to ensure that anyone involved in this illegal practice is arrested and prosecuted,” he stated.

His directive comes in response to reports suggesting that the government had approved mining activities in protected forest areas—claims that have been categorically denied.

The President also stressed that no government official is permitted to partake in small-scale mining or galamsey, warning that any member of his administration caught violating this directive will face strict disciplinary measures.

Mahama reiterated that the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources bears the responsibility of preserving the environment and managing Ghana’s natural resources prudently.

He further reinforced his administration’s firm stance against mining in forest reserves by imposing a ban on new mining leases in these areas. Additionally, he ordered the immediate cancellation of any mining leases granted by the previous government for operations in forest reserves.