The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has declared that the "era of impunity is over" as government intensifies efforts to tackle illegal mining and environmental destruction.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series at the Presidency, the minister said government would continue to pursue individuals and criminal networks involved in activities that destroy the country's natural resources.

"Our rivers are not for sale. Our forests are not expendable. Our mineral wealth is a sacred national inheritance that we have a duty to protect," Mr Buah said.

He added: "The era of impunity is over. Government will continue to pursue every individual, every financier, and every criminal syndicate that profits from the destruction of our environment. The law will be applied without fear or favour."

The minister said government had stepped up enforcement against illegal mining through operations carried out by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS).

According to him, between January and June 2026, NAIMOS conducted 200 operations across 53 districts, recording an 84.1% strike rate.

He said the operations led to the arrest of 207 suspects, comprising 161 Ghanaians and 46 foreigners.

The minister added that 78 excavators were seized, 90 immobilised, 2,800 chanfang machines destroyed, 1,244 illegal structures demolished, and 112 pump-action rifles together with 1,637 rounds of ammunition recovered.

Mr Buah also called on traditional authorities, the security services, the media and the public to support government's efforts to protect Ghana's natural resources.

"Together, we shall reclaim our rivers, restore our forests, protect our natural wealth, and secure a greener, stronger, and more prosperous Ghana for generations yet unborn," he said.