Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, has issued a strong call to action to the Western Central Police Command, urging them to renew their commitment to eradicating illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, without fear or favour.

Addressing the police leadership during a meeting in Tarkwa, Minister Nelson expressed deep concern over persistent reports that some officers may be accepting bribes from illegal miners — a situation he described as deeply troubling and dangerous to Ghana’s future.

“There’s a lot more to be done in the fight against galamsey,” he said.

“While I acknowledge the good work many of you are doing, we must also confront the negative, especially claims of corruption and compromise within our ranks.

Our environment is being ravaged in the name of gold, and this destruction is putting countless lives at risk.”

He warned that illegal mining is not only contaminating water bodies but also endangering arable lands crucial for agriculture.

The ripple effect, he stressed, is a growing threat to the nation’s food security.

“Our country's food security is in serious danger,” Minister Nelson lamented.

“The lands we once relied on to grow cassava and other staples are disappearing.

Take a drive around — thriving farms are vanishing. It’s disheartening.”

He condemned the attitude of indifference by some who believe they can simply rely on bottled water. “That mindset is dangerous.

The consequences of galamsey affect us all — our health, our lives, and our future.”

The Minister added that he had received disturbing reports that some police officers were accepting bribes ranging from GH₵2,000 to GH₵3,000 from illegal miners.

“While money is important,” he said, “it is far more fulfilling when earned with honesty and integrity.”

In response, the Western Central Regional Police Commander, DCOP Desmond Boampong, reaffirmed the police’s commitment to tackling illegal mining.

However, he cited ongoing challenges, including intimidation by individuals allegedly claiming to be affiliated with the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC).

“These people confront and harass our officers when arrests are made,” DCOP Boampong disclosed.

“This interference is undermining our work.”

He appealed to the Minister to intervene and support efforts to protect law enforcement officers from such harassment, allowing them to carry out their duties without fear.