Bono Regional Minister calls for arrest of persons using names of government appointees for galamsey

Joseph Addae Akwaboa, Bono Regional Minister, urged chiefs and residents to arrest people using government appointees' names for galamsey in the Bono Region. He said, "arrest anyone who uses the names of government appointees to engage in illegal mining, commonly known as 'galamsey.'" He reiterated the government's commitment to intensifying the fight against illegal mining across the region, warning that no individual or group will be spared if found engaging in the practice.

The Minister called on community members to remain vigilant and hand over to the police anyone claiming to operate under the instruction or protection of the Minister or any other government official. He spoke during an accounting-to-the-people tour in the Berekum West District, stating that illegal mining poses serious threats to the environment, water bodies, and farmlands. Security agencies and relevant authorities have been directed to clamp down on all illegal mining operations in the Bono Region.

Mr. Akwaboa also reiterated that any contractor who receives payment for a government project but fails to execute the work will face the full rigours of the law. He cited the case involving Kofi Akpaloo, who was allegedly awarded a contract for the construction of a five-kilometre road in the Berekum West District but failed to execute the project despite receiving payment. EOCO is handling the matter and legal action will soon be taken.