The Eastern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has officially inaugurated a seven-member task force to tackle illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey,” in the region. The initiative aims to curb the devastating environmental and economic effects of illegal mining activities.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony on Tuesday, the Regional Minister emphasized the urgent need to confront the menace, describing galamsey as a serious security threat.
“Illegal mining is not just an environmental hazard; it endangers human lives and threatens our economy. This is why we have taken decisive action by investing authority in the Illegal Mining Task Force of the Regional Security Council,” he stated.
The task force comprises key security and regulatory officials, including:
The Regional Police Commander, the Commanding Officer, Military, Regional Commander, Ghana Immigration Service
,Regional Commander, National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), Regional Security Liaison Officer, Regional Director, Minerals Commission, the Regional Director, and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The minister expressed confidence in the task force’s ability to deliver on its mandate, assuring that REGSEC would take full responsibility for its operations.
“We expect this task force to be different—to carry out its duties without fear or favor. It is our hope that this will not be a nine-day wonder but a formidable force committed to ending illegal mining in the region,” he added.
The primary objective of the task force is to monitor and prevent illegal mining activities, particularly in areas already severely impacted. Their responsibilities include:Identifying illegal mining sites and taking swift action to shut them down, enforcing mining regulations by ensuring strict adherence to existing laws and prosecuting offenders.
The taskforce will also confiscate illegal mining equipment and working with Municipal and District Assemblies to secure them.
It will also Protect water bodies and forests through enhanced monitoring to prevent further environmental degradation.
Conducting public awareness campaigns to educate communities on the dangers of illegal mining.
Collaborating with local communities to enlist their support in combating the problem.
The minister stressed the need for intelligence gathering and community involvement, urging residents to report illegal mining activities to authorities.
“Our communities must be the first line of defense. If we work together, we can dismantle these illegal operations and protect our lands and water bodies for future generations,” he noted.
He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the fight against illegal mining, promising logistical and personnel support to the task force.
“The government, as part of its resetting agenda, is determined to ensure that illegal mining becomes a thing of the past. Adequate resources will be provided to enable the task force to carry out its mandate effectively,” he assured.
The minister concluded with a stern warning: “The Eastern Region will not tolerate illegal mining in any form. This fight demands confidentiality, dedication, and collaboration. We must all work together to make our region safer and more sustainable.”
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
