The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources (MLNR), in collaboration with the security agencies, has intensified its fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, by training more personnel to be combat-ready for nationwide operations.

Illegal mining has emerged as one of Ghana’s most pressing environmental threats, causing widespread devastation to forests, rivers, and farmlands.

Experts warn that contaminated soils and water bodies are reducing crop yields and posing grave risks to public health.

Upon assuming office, President John Dramani Mahama directed the sector Minister, Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, to halt the issuance of new mining licenses pending a comprehensive review of the sector.

The Minister has also petitioned the Attorney-General to repeal Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462, which civil society organisations have long criticised as enabling galamsey operations.

As part of the government’s intensified efforts, the Minister recently launched the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations (NAIMOS) to better coordinate interventions.

The initiative, according to officials, has already begun recording positive results.

To sustain these gains, the NAIMOS Coordinator, Col. Buah, has rolled out a specialised training programme for security personnel.

The training equips officers with knowledge of forest laws, land regulations, and operational guidelines, enabling them to deter, halt, discourage, and arrest those engaged in illegal mining.

Over a thousand personnel will be deployed to more than 44 identified galamsey flashpoints.

They are expected to collaborate with traditional authorities while remaining uncompromised in their duties.

Unlike past deployments, these officers will be stationed permanently at the affected sites and rotated regularly to ensure vigilance.

The initiative adds to previous interventions such as the rCOMSDEP and Blue Water Guards, both introduced by the Ministry to protect Ghana’s natural resources.

Minister Armah-Kofi Buah reiterated that the government is not opposed to mining but remains firmly against irresponsible practices, particularly mining in forest reserves and water bodies.

“This government supports responsible mining, but we will not tolerate destruction of our environment and livelihoods,” the Minister stressed.