Ghana’s Galamsey Battle Takes A New Turn As DCE Speaks About Powerful Figures

The fight against illegal mining in Ghana may be more complicated than many people think. The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Suaman, Vasco Obuor, has raised concerns that those involved in the fight against galamsey could unknowingly be going after powerful people hiding behind illegal mining activities.

According to Obuor, the people behind some illegal mining operations may not simply be ordinary miners working at mining sites. He warned that those fighting galamsey might actually be confronting influential figures, including chiefs and traders, without even knowing it.

His comments raise serious questions about the people who finance, support and benefit from illegal mining in parts of Ghana. While public attention often focuses on the workers seen digging at mining sites, the business structure behind these operations may involve other people who provide money, equipment and other forms of support.

This is an important issue because stopping illegal mining requires more than chasing people away from rivers and forest areas. If those who provide the resources and financial support remain untouched, the activities could continue even after workers are removed from a particular location.

Obuor’s warning also brings attention to the sensitive role of traditional authorities and influential business figures in communities where mining takes place. Chiefs hold important positions in many local communities, while traders and other business people can play a role in the local mining economy.

However, his comments should not be taken to mean that all chiefs or traders are involved in illegal mining. Any allegation against an individual must be supported by evidence, and people should not be judged simply because of their position or business activities.

The warning also points to the difficulties facing officials and security agencies involved in the government’s anti-galamsey campaign. They must identify not only those working at mining sites but also the people who may be financing or organising illegal operations.

At the same time, enforcement must follow the law. Accusing powerful people without proper evidence could create tension, while failing to investigate credible information could allow illegal mining networks to remain active.