The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has issued a strong condemnation following the recent attack on journalists from Citi News by illegal miners, commonly known as galamsey operators, in the Breman-Adomanya forest area of the Wassa Amenfi West District in the Western Region.
The attack, which resulted in the destruction of timber and cocoa trees, rubber farms, and the pollution of the nearby River Tano, highlights the alarming extent of illegal mining activities in the country.
The Ministry, in its press release, expressed outrage over the incident, describing it as a brazen act of violence against media personnel who were carrying out their duty to inform the public.
The statement emphasized that such attacks undermine press freedom, a fundamental pillar of democracy, and pose a serious threat to national security. “This is a direct threat to the rule of law, the safety of citizens, and the freedom of the press,” the statement noted.
“The attack underscores the pervasive and destructive nature of illegal mining activities in our country.
“These operators not only destroy our environment, pollute our water bodies, and degrade our forests, but they also resort to violence and intimidation to protect their illicit activities.”
Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources
The Ministry reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating illegal mining and protecting Ghana’s natural resources.
Officials acknowledged that this attack serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to tackle the menace of galamsey comprehensively and decisively.
The press release stressed that media personnel play a critical role in holding perpetrators accountable and ensuring that the public is well-informed about the environmental challenges facing the nation.
“We commend the bravery and dedication of the journalists who risked their lives to expose the truth.
“Their work is critical in holding perpetrators accountable and ensuring that the public remains informed about the challenges we face in safeguarding our natural heritage,”
Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources
This incident adds to a growing list of violent confrontations between illegal miners and journalists who seek to expose their activities.
Media organizations in Ghana have consistently reported threats and attacks while covering issues related to illegal mining, raising concerns over the safety of journalists working in high-risk environments.
Government Pledges to Bring Justice
The Ministry has vowed to work closely with security agencies to ensure that those responsible for the attack are arrested and prosecuted.
It warned that the government would not tolerate lawlessness and that decisive action would be taken against anyone who resorts to violence to protect their illegal activities.
“To the perpetrators of this attack, let this serve as a clear warning: the government will not tolerate such lawlessness.
“We will work closely with the security agencies to ensure that those responsible are apprehended and face the full rigors of the law.”
Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources
The Ghana Police Service and other relevant agencies have been urged to expedite investigations into the matter and bring the culprits to justice.
The statement also called on citizens, community leaders, and traditional authorities to collaborate in the fight against illegal mining, emphasizing that it is a national crisis that requires a collective effort to resolve.
The Ministry’s statement reiterated the need for national unity in addressing the galamsey crisis. It called on government agencies, traditional leaders, local communities, and the media to intensify efforts in combating illegal mining.
“We call on all Ghanaians to unite in the fight against illegal mining. We must protect our environment, our livelihoods, and our future.
“Together, we can restore the integrity of our lands and ensure that our natural resources benefit all citizens, not just a few selfish individuals.”
Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources
The attack on Citi News journalists is a wake-up call for authorities to enhance protections for media personnel and take stronger actions against illegal mining.
As the government continues to implement policies and interventions to curb galamsey, the role of the media remains crucial in exposing environmental crimes and ensuring accountability.
While the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has pledged action, it remains to be seen whether this incident will lead to tangible results in the long-standing fight against illegal mining in Ghana.
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