The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has announced a nationwide crackdown on illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, citing its escalating threat to national security and public safety.
Speaking at the Regional Command Conference held at the Police Headquarters in Accra, the IGP emphasized the urgent need for decisive police action, particularly in forest reserves where illegal mining is rampant.
He revealed that armed criminals involved in galamsey operations have attacked civilians and forest guards, further deepening the crisis in affected communities.
“Regions like Western North, in particular, have witnessed brutal attacks on innocent people. We must not allow this lawlessness to continue,” Mr. Yohuno stated. “The escalating violence and environmental destruction must be stopped. Let’s declare war on crimes related to illegal mining. We need to intensify our efforts and adopt new strategies to tackle this crisis.”
He called on regional commanders—especially those in galamsey-prone areas—to take bold and swift actions to bring perpetrators to justice and restore order.
Mr. Yohuno stressed the importance of dramatic interventions to combat what he described as a “life-threatening menace” and urged the police force to treat the issue with the seriousness it deserves.
Story by Osman Issah Abadoo
