The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG) is calling on the government to declare a state of emergency in regions affected by rampant and illegal mining activities, following a violent attack on police officers during an anti-galamsey operation.
In a statement, the Coalition commended the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and officers involved in recent operations for their bravery in confronting violent galamsey operators.
The GCAG cited video evidence showing illegal miners attacking police, which it says highlights the growing lawlessness and security threat posed by illegal mining.
According to the group, the ongoing destruction of Ghana’s natural resources and attacks on state security personnel represent a national emergency requiring urgent action.
The GCAG made the following key demands:
1. Declaration of a targeted state of emergency in all regions affected by illegal mining.
2. Expanded intelligence operations and deployment of a joint police-military task force to arrest all perpetrators involved in the recent violence.
3. Seizure and forfeiture of all equipment used in illegal mining, and full prosecution of those who finance and profit from such operations.
4. Immediate dismissal and investigation of Municipal Chief Executives (MCEs) and local police commanders in areas where enforcement failed, for possible negligence or collusion.
The Coalition also commended authorities for the arrest of an Assembly member allegedly involved in the incident and urged law enforcement to intensify efforts to track down all others responsible.
“We have lost too much already,” the statement read. “When criminals attack state security with impunity, Ghana’s sovereignty is under direct threat.”
The GCAG, a coalition of civil society organisations, professionals, traditional leaders, and other stakeholder groups, reiterated its commitment to fighting all forms of illegal mining as defined under the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) and the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.