Civil society groups and environmental advocates have condemned what they describe as an egregious assault on Ghana’s natural heritage, following the attempted diversion of the sacred Birim River at Apapam in the Eastern Region.
The groups including A Rocha Ghana, the Concerned Citizens of Atewa Landscape (C.C.AL), and the Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey say the act highlights the growing impunity of illegal mining operations across the country and called on government to respond decisively.
“This is an unconscionable assault on Ghana’s natural heritage and a blatant infringement of regulations governing the use of our natural resources.
“We are outraged that such an irresponsible act could take place, even as the nation mourns the loss of eight patriots who recently died in the line of duty fighting illegal mining.”
Civil Society Groups
The controversy erupted after it was discovered that a mining operation linked to Mr. Emmanuel Gamah, operating out of Kwabeng, had dug trenches and constructed a channel in an attempt to redirect the Birim River from its natural course.
The diversion point, located just as the river emerges from the ecologically sensitive Atewa Forest Reserve, drew swift backlash when the news became public.
According to the groups, the operation not only threatened to alter the river’s course but also caused extensive damage to a three-year-old ecological restoration site.
Bulldozers reportedly flattened sections of the area, destroying native trees such as mahogany, emire, and ofram, which had been painstakingly cultivated to restore degraded forest lands.
“This was not just an attack on a river. It was the destruction of years of ecological recovery efforts.
“It demonstrates the level of recklessness and disregard for both our environment and cultural heritage.”
Civil Society Groups
Following public outcry, the operation was swiftly suspended. Officials from the Water Resources Commission (WRC), Minerals Commission, and the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) visited the site for inspection.
The NIB is said to have detained a security operative found on-site for questioning, while investigations into the incident continue.
Calls for Prosecution
The civil society groups insisted that suspension of the illegal activity is not enough. They are demanding the arrest and prosecution of all those involved, including the alleged operator, Emmanuel Gamah.
“The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Water Resources Commission, and the Minerals Commission must move beyond suspension.
“Apprehend the perpetrators and prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law for illegal mining, environmental destruction, and cultural desecration.”
Civil Society Groups
They further called for the miner to be compelled to refill the trenches and restore the destroyed restoration site at his own cost, arguing that anything short of this would set a dangerous precedent for other illegal miners.
Beyond prosecuting the operator, the groups are urging authorities to investigate whether there was complicity at higher levels, including within the regulatory agencies tasked with protecting Ghana’s natural resources.
“We must know who looked the other way while this brazen destruction was happening.
“Were there officials who allowed this to continue unchecked? If so, they must also be held accountable.”
Civil Society Groups
The groups stressed that such impunity, if left unpunished, threatens Ghana’s ability to safeguard its rivers and forests, which are crucial to the country’s ecological and cultural survival.
Turning Point for Action
The Atewa Forest Reserve, from which the Birim River flows, is not only ecologically significant but also spiritually revered by local communities.
The Birim itself is central to the lives of millions downstream, providing water for drinking, farming, and domestic use.
Civil society actors insist that this latest incident should mark a turning point in Ghana’s battle against illegal mining and environmental degradation.
“This is not just an environmental issue. It is about protecting life-supporting systems for current and future generations.
“We expect bold and decisive leadership from both the state and local authorities.”
Civil Society Groups
As investigations proceed, pressure is mounting on regulatory bodies to demonstrate firmness in addressing the illegal diversion of the Birim River.
For many Ghanaians, the incident has reignited questions about the effectiveness of the country’s anti-galamsey fight and the political will to confront powerful interests behind illegal mining operations.
READ ALSO: Ghana Set to Smash All 2025 Economic Targets – IC Research Hails Strong H1 Performance
