The youth of Akyem Asuom in the Kwaebibirem Municipality of the Eastern Region on Sunday stormed five illegal mining (galamsey) sites in a daring move to stop illegal mining activities that have severely damaged their water bodies, crops, and farmlands.
The confrontation led to firing of warning shot by some illegal miners, however four site foremen were arrested and handed over to the police.
According to the youth, repeated warnings to the illegal miners to halt their activities have been ignored.
They claim the mining operations have caused massive destruction to their lands and water sources, which threatens their livelihoods.
They further allege that the small scale mining companies involved only possess prospecting licenses, yet they continue to mine without any action by regulators.
The youth also accused some local traditional leaders of being complicit in the illegal activities, alleging that these leaders have accepted bribes from the miners, making it difficult to put an end to the destruction.
The group has called on the government to intervene urgently, warning that if no action is taken, they will take matters into their own hands to expel the miners from the community.
Supporting the youth, the Krontihene of Akyem Asuom, Nana Boadi Amponim Abodade III, confirmed that galamsey activities have caused significant damage to the area’s farmlands and water bodies.
He revealed that despite his efforts to stop the illegal mining since his installation as Krontihene, his attempts have been unsuccessful.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
