Ghana’s fight against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, is entering a decisive phase, with authorities set to apprehend a high-profile figure allegedly at the center of the illicit trade. Acting CEO of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, revealed the impending arrest during an interview with Channel One TV on Wednesday, signaling a tougher stance under the current administration.
A Real Fight, Not a Charade
Gyamfi did not disclose the suspect’s identity but assured the public that the arrest would mark a turning point in the government’s renewed anti-galamsey campaign.
“Mark my words—within days, one of the biggest kingpins and his network will be in custody,” he stated. “This isn’t just for show. The police, military, and national security are fully committed. Unlike before, there’s no room for compromise.”
Taking a swipe at the previous administration, Gyamfi dismissed past efforts as ineffective. “There was no real fight before—just a charade. Now, we’re reclaiming forests, prosecuting offenders, and ensuring accountability at every level.”
Environmental Recovery and Policy Shifts
The GoldBod chief acknowledged the severe environmental damage caused by years of unchecked illegal mining but emphasized that restoration takes time.
“You can’t expect rivers poisoned with mercury and cyanide to clear overnight,” he noted. “But progress is underway.”
President John Mahama has ordered the cancellation of all mining leases in protected forest reserves, with companies found violating environmental laws facing severe penalties, including prosecution of directors and shareholders.
Repealing Controversial Mining Law
A major policy shift is the planned repeal of *Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462*, which currently allows the President to grant mining concessions in forest reserves. Critics argue the law has accelerated deforestation and water pollution.
“L.I. 2462 is toxic and must go,” Gyamfi declared. “Consultations with the Attorney-General are complete, and Parliament will soon scrap it.”
On-the-Ground Gains
Security operations have already reclaimed seven of Ghana’s 44 worst-affected forest reserves. Authorities have seized 125 excavators, 10 bulldozers, and multiple vehicles—with none mysteriously disappearing, a sharp contrast to past allegations of missing equipment under previous regimes.
“No drones lost, no excavators vanished,” Gyamfi asserted. “The President’s directive is clear: any official involved in galamsey will face immediate dismissal and prosecution.”
Public Support Crucial for Long-Term Success
While celebrating recent wins, Gyamfi admitted the battle is far from over. He urged Ghanaians to back the crackdown, stressing that sustainable solutions—not temporary measures—are the goal.
“We’re dismantling entire networks—financiers, enablers, and powerful figures behind this destruction,” he said. “No one is above the law.”
With the repeal of L.I. 2462 on the horizon, Ghana appears poised to strengthen environmental protections and redefine mining governance—a move activists say could finally turn the tide against galamsey’s devastating legacy.
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