Former Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, has called for an uncompromising crackdown on all individuals — including influential figures — behind the illegal small-scale mining menace in Ghana.
Speaking on The Key Points on TV3 monitored by radiogoldlive.com, Saturday, August 9, Prof. Frimpong-Boateng stressed that the recent tragic military helicopter crash should serve as a national wake-up call to intensify the fight against Galamsey.
“It is time for us to go after those behind the illegal mining menace. We all know they are powerful people who have money and get others to secure their concessions,” he said.
His remarks follow the death of eight prominent Ghanaians in a helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Environment Murtala Mohammed, and former Ashanti Regional Minister Samuel Sarpong.
Others who perished were Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Aboagye, a former Member of Parliament and NDC Vice Chairman; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Mane-Twum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) confirmed in a statement that the helicopter, which departed from Accra to Obuasi, went off radar before crashing. Eyewitnesses told Onua TV that the aircraft was burnt beyond recognition.
Echoing the call for urgent action, CEO of the Chamber of Mines, Ken Ashigbey, also urged that the tragedy must inspire a decisive end to Galamsey.
“My prayer is that the blood of these eight Ghanaians will not go in vain. We need to deal with these environmental criminals. This is the time for us to act,” Mr. Ashigbey noted.
The accident has reignited public debate over illegal mining and the need for stronger enforcement measures to protect the nation’s environment and natural resources.
