The Bono Regional Minister, Joseph Addae Akwaboa, has reaffirmed his commitment to the fight against illegal mining in the Bono Region. Speaking to the media after inspecting impounded equipment, the Minister insisted that authorities will not relent in their crackdown on galamsey, despite criticism over the handling of the issue in Atronie.
Minister Insists on Crackdown Despite Atronie Row
The Minister said the region had made significant progress despite criticism over the handling of illegal mining in Atronie. "We have taken steps in what has happened at Atronie. We want to go through all the directions that have been given by REGSEC, and after that we will hold a press conference to give details about what has happened at Atronie," he said. The Minister assured residents that government would not allow illegal mining to thrive in the region.
Evidence of Crackdown
The Minister pointed to the seizure of 11 excavators, eight tricycles, 32 motorbikes, water pumping machines and generators as evidence of the regional security council's determination to clamp down on illegal mining. "These are not NAIMOS operations. These are REGSEC operations," he added. The Minister also revealed that the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources is pursuing legislation that would allow the state to permanently confiscate seized mining equipment.
Minister Rejects Atronie Traditional Council Allegations
The Minister rejected allegations from the Atronie Traditional Council that he had been inactive in addressing the issue of galamsey in the region. "People will get to know what is happening in Atronie and who is telling the truth. You have seen the excavators for yourselves. This has been the work of REGSEC. We are not sleeping. We are combating galamsey," he said. The Minister also maintained that his record speaks for itself, and that he possesses "undisputed video evidence" of his visit to the mining sites.
What's Next for the Bono Region?
The Minister's comments come amid growing tension between the Regional Coordinating Council and the Atronie Traditional Council, which recently accused the Minister of failing to respond promptly to repeated warnings about illegal mining that has polluted the Amoma River and destroyed farmlands. The traditional authorities have invoked the wrath of their local deity after alleging that the government has failed to halt the pollution of their river. The Minister has assured residents that government would not allow illegal mining to thrive in the region, and that the President does not want galamsey to continue in the Bono Region.
Source: Joy Online
