Christian Council Of Ghana Calls For More Military And Police Deployment To Intensify Galamsey Fight

According to a report by Class FM on Tuesday October 20, 2026, the Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) has called on the government to deploy more military personnel and police officers to strengthen the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, as concerns continue to grow over the destruction of the country’s natural resources.

The Council believes that increasing the presence of security personnel in areas affected by illegal mining would help improve enforcement of existing laws and protect rivers, farmlands and other environmentally sensitive locations from further degradation.

The call comes amid ongoing national efforts to address the devastating effects of illegal mining, which has been linked to the pollution of water bodies, destruction of agricultural lands and environmental damage in several parts of Ghana.

The Christian Council’s position underscores the need for a more robust approach to tackling the menace, with particular emphasis on providing security agencies with the personnel, equipment and logistical support required to carry out effective operations.

According to the Council’s appeal, the government must move beyond expressions of concern and ensure that the laws governing mining activities are enforced consistently.

It maintains that stronger security measures are necessary to prevent illegal operators from continuing activities that threaten the environment and the livelihoods of affected communities.

Illegal mining has remained a major concern for environmental advocates, farmers and residents who depend on rivers and streams for drinking water, farming and other essential activities.

The contamination of these water sources has raised questions about the long-term consequences for public health, water treatment and the sustainability of local economies.

The destruction of farmlands has also become a significant issue, particularly in communities where agriculture provides income and employment for a large proportion of residents.

Mining activities that leave productive land damaged can undermine food production and make it difficult for farmers to sustain their livelihoods.

The Christian Council’s call for the deployment of additional military and police personnel highlights the importance of strengthening the operational capacity of security agencies in areas where illegal mining activities persist.

However, an effective crackdown would also depend on sustained monitoring, cooperation among state institutions and the consistent application of the law against individuals found to be engaging in illegal mining.

The government has faced continued calls from various stakeholders to demonstrate stronger commitment to protecting Ghana’s natural resources.

The Christian Council’s intervention adds to these demands, placing renewed attention on the role of security agencies in preventing further environmental destruction.

The Council’s appeal also reinforces the need for a coordinated national response that prioritises the protection of water bodies and farmlands while ensuring that mining activities comply with the country’s laws.

As concerns about galamsey continue, the demand for more military and police personnel reflects the urgency attached to efforts to protect the environment and preserve natural resources for future generations.

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