The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, who also serves as Caretaker Minister for Environment, has issued a strong warning to illegal miners, vowing that the government will pursue them relentlessly as part of renewed efforts to end the galamsey menace.

Within 72 hours of the announcement, training commenced for thousands of security personnel who will be deployed to more than 44 to 50 illegal mining flashpoints across the country.

The officers, who will be stationed permanently on a rotational basis, are being trained to ensure vigilance and prevent compromise with local operators.

As part of their preparation, representatives from key agencies, including the Forestry Commission, Minerals Commission, and Lands Commission, will brief the personnel on the relevant laws and regulations guiding the mining sector.

The deployment forms part of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations (NAIMOS), a coordinated strategy to intensify the crackdown on galamsey.

President John Dramani Mahama has repeatedly clarified that his administration is not opposed to responsible small-scale mining.

However, he strongly condemns illegal and irresponsible practices, particularly mining in water bodies and forest reserves, which have caused severe environmental damage.

In line with the President’s directive, the Minister, MR. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah has written to the Attorney-General seeking a repeal of L.I. 2462, a regulation widely criticised for enabling illegal mining activities.

This move complements the earlier decision by the government to suspend the issuance of new mining licenses since January 7, 2025.

Minister Buah, together with his Deputy, has pledged an unwavering commitment to the anti-galamsey fight, hinting at additional measures that will soon be rolled out concurrently to strengthen the nationwide campaign.