Galamsey fight: Akufo-Addo assemble soldiers to ‘handle’ galamsey operators

In a decisive move following concerns raised by Organised Labour, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has taken steps to address the pressing issue of illegal mining, known locally as galamsey.

On October 7, 2024, Organised Labour issued a press release demanding an immediate halt to illegal mining activities, particularly around water bodies and forest reserves.

In response, the President communicated his commitment to tackling this issue through a letter dated October 9, 2024.

The President’s letter outlines specific measures aimed at curbing illegal mining and protecting the country’s natural resources.

One of the key actions announced is the deployment of additional military forces to strengthen “Operation Halt,” an ongoing initiative aimed at combating illegal mining activities.

The President has directed the Minister for Defence to ensure that these additional personnel are mobilized to enhance the effectiveness of the operation.

In addition to increasing military presence, the operation will also see the deployment of naval boats on polluted river bodies.

This measure is crucial for monitoring and enforcing the cessation of all mining activities—both legal and illegal—around these vital water sources.

The aim is to ensure that mining does not further endanger the environment and the communities that depend on these water bodies for their livelihoods.

“Deployment of Additional Military Personnel: The President has directed the Minister for Defence to deploy additional military forces to intensify the ongoing “Operation Halt”, which aims to curb illegal mining activities. The operation will be bolstered by the deployment of naval boats on polluted river bodies to ensure the immediate cessation of all mining activities, legal or illegal, in and around these water bodies,” part of the statement said.

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