In a resolute move to combat illegal mining in the Savannah Region of Ghana, the Regional Minister, Salisu Be-Awurbe (Esq.), spearheaded a major security operation on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. The operation, conducted in collaboration with the Regional Police Command, targeted illicit mining activities in Tuntumba, a community within the Bole District.
The crackdown yielded significant results, including the seizure of eight excavators and the demolition of over 100 makeshift structures believed to serve as shelters and storage facilities for illegal miners. The swift and decisive action underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating illegal mining, also known as "galamsey," which has posed a grave threat to Ghana’s environment and natural resources.
A Firm Stance Against Illegal Mining
Speaking to the media after the operation, Mr. Be-Awurbe reaffirmed the government’s uncompromising stance on illegal mining. He issued a stern warning that individuals engaging in mining activities without valid licenses would face legal consequences.
“Illegal mining not only endangers our environment but also undermines the livelihoods of law-abiding citizens and pollutes vital water bodies. This government will not relent in its efforts to bring perpetrators to justice,” he stated.
The Regional Minister revealed that several illegal miners, including foreign nationals, fled the scene upon the arrival of security personnel, abandoning their equipment and personal belongings. While the immediate operation disrupted their activities, Mr. Be-Awurbe emphasized the need for sustained efforts to dismantle the networks financing these operations.
Targeting Financiers and Heavy Equipment Operators
A key focus of the ongoing crackdown is identifying and prosecuting the financiers behind illegal mining operations. According to the Minister, these individuals often provide heavy-duty machinery such as excavators, enabling large-scale environmental degradation. Their activities have contributed significantly to the pollution of major water bodies, including the Black and White Volta Rivers, which are critical sources of water for both human consumption and agriculture.
Law enforcement agencies are intensifying their investigations to trace and hold accountable those who bankroll these destructive operations. The Minister expressed confidence that such measures would serve as a deterrent to others considering engaging in similar activities.
Promoting Legal and Responsible Mining
In addition to enforcement measures, Mr. Be-Awurbe called on the Minerals Commission to expedite the allocation of legal concessions to organized small-scale mining groups. He stressed that providing legitimate avenues for mining would help reduce illegal activities while promoting responsible resource extraction practices.
“By streamlining the process for obtaining legal concessions, we can encourage miners to operate within the framework of the law. This will not only safeguard our environment but also contribute to sustainable economic growth in our region,” he explained.
A Call for Collective Action
The operation in Tuntumba represents a significant step forward in addressing the menace of illegal mining. However, Mr. Be-Awurbe acknowledged that combating this issue requires a multi-faceted approach involving collaboration between government agencies, local communities, and civil society organizations.
He urged residents across the Savannah Region to remain vigilant and report any suspicious mining activities to authorities. “Protecting our natural resources is a shared responsibility. Together, we can ensure that our environment is preserved for future generations,” he concluded.
As Ghana continues its fight against illegal mining, actions like those taken in Tuntumba serve as a powerful reminder that environmental stewardship and rule of law remain top priorities for the government. While challenges persist, efforts to promote legal and responsible mining offer a pathway toward sustainable development in resource-rich regions like Savannah.
Source: Rebecca Nantomah | Curated by : Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
