Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Prof. Nana Ama Klutse, has recounted a harrowing incident that occurred during a recent crackdown on illicit mining activities in the Ashanti Region.
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) in a disturbing turn of events found itself at the center of violent confrontation with illegal miners, “galamseyers” thereby leading to accident.
“In the course of fleeing, while speeding on the road, one of our vehicles, which had some EPA staff and journalists on board, collided head-on with a truck that was carrying pipes believed to be used for the galamsey operations.”
Prof. Nana Ama Klutse, EPA CEO
During the agency’s recent operations in the Ashanti Region where it impounded several illicit equipment suspected to be used in the illegal activities, the operation team encountered unpleasant accident following attack by the galamseyers.
It is revealed that the team was confronted by well-armed illegal miners hence they had to flee from the scene to save their lives while conducting a special operation in the Dadwene community near Obuasi.
Ongoing Battle Against Illegal Mining
The Environmental Protection Authority has been one of the leading institutions or agencies at the forefront in the fight against illegal mining, an issue that has over the years, bedevilled the country’s natural resources and ecosystems.
The agency’s recent operation in the Ashanti Region was part of its broader efforts to combat the destructive practice of galamsey, which has caused widespread environmental degradation and water pollution.
As part of the authority’s initiatives to salvage the environment, plunged the team into the unfortunate situation.
Injuries and Casualties
The aftermath of the incident has been devastating as recounted by the Authority’s CEO. According to her, the two journalists, TV3’s Abubakar Sadiq and Joy TV camera operator, as well as several EPA staff members sustained severe injuries at various degrees during the attack and subsequent collision.
The CEO also confirmed that the most critical case involves the two journalists i.e the Joy TV cameraman who suffered a broken thigh and the TV3’s correspondent, Abubakar who also had chest pains. She also assured that all the victims are responding well to treatment.
The Authority’s Unwavering Commitment
Despite the harrowing experience, the EPA remains steadfast in its mission to combat illegal mining and protect Ghana’s environment.
The attack on the EPA team highlights the dangerous and volatile nature of the ongoing battle against illegal mining.
“We saw some heavily built men, many of them approaching with guns. We had military personnel and national security officers with us, but we realised we couldn’t exchange fire, so we had to run for our lives.”
Prof. Nana Ama Klutse, EPA CEO
Galamseyers, often heavily armed and well-organized according to many, have demonstrated a need to resort to violence in the face of enforcement efforts.
This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges faced by the EPA and other authorities while they strive to protect the country’s natural resources and environment.
Whie the country through the government continues to grapple with the scourge of illegal mining, the EPA’s resilience and determination in the face of such adversity will be crucial in ultimately addressing this complex and multifaceted issue.
The agency’s commitment to safeguarding the environment and the safety of its personnel underscores the critical role it plays in the nation’s ongoing fight for sustainable resource management and environmental protection.
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