The Forestry Commission has announced an investigation into staff members suspected of aiding illegal miners, following claims by Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Kofi Armah Buah. The Minister alleged that some commission employees are colluding with illegal miners, contributing to environmental destruction.
Elikem Kotoku, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, stated that thorough investigations will be conducted to hold any culpable officers accountable. “Those officers who are complicit in any involvement in illegal mining will be thoroughly investigated, and appropriate punitive actions will be taken. We must adhere to the ethics established by our institution, and anyone acting contrary will face consequences,” he emphasized.
On April 21, the Lands Minister ordered the revocation of the mining lease for Akonta Mining Company Ltd. due to its significant role in illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey, within protected forest reserves. In a press conference, he revealed findings from undercover investigations that showed Akonta Mining was operating unlawfully in forest reserves without the necessary permits.
Although Akonta Mining possesses a license to operate outside of reserves, it has encroached on the Aboi and Tano Nimiri Forest Reserves in the Western North Region. Investigations further disclosed that the company had been leasing access to these reserves to illegal miners for up to GHS 300,000 per concession, with some miners allegedly paying weekly royalties in gold, amounting to as much as 250 grams, to the company.
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