A former illegal miner has exposed the corruption and systemic collusion that enable illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, to thrive in Ghana.
The former galamsey operator, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, described how illegal miners rely on a network of influential local figures, including District Chief Executives (DCEs), Members of Parliament (MPs), and police commanders, to avoid detection and continue their operations.
“To operate successfully, you need to be friends with the DCE, the MP, the District Police Commander, and the subchiefs in the area,” he explained. “When there’s a raid planned, they’ll give you a heads-up, and you can escape before the authorities come.”
This candid revelation highlights the extent of corruption within the ranks of local governance and law enforcement. The former miner’s comments come at a time when illegal mining poses a significant threat to Ghana’s environment, particularly in rural areas where illegal operators exploit gold reserves without regard for the ecological consequences.
Despite ongoing government crackdowns on illegal mining, the insider’s insights reveal a disturbing reality: many illegal miners can evade the law through bribery and favors from officials who are supposed to uphold the law. “It’s not just about the gold; it’s about survival,” he said. “If you don’t have these connections, you’re likely to end up in jail or lose everything.”
The revelations raise critical questions about the effectiveness of government strategies aimed at combating galamsey. Community leaders and environmental advocates have long criticized the government for failing to tackle the corruption that undermines enforcement efforts. They argue that without addressing the systemic issues at play, illegal mining will continue to flourish, exacerbating environmental degradation and harming local communities.
In recent years, Ghana has witnessed increased public outcry over the galamsey crisis, with devastating consequences for waterways, forests, and agricultural land. The former operator’s account serves as a stark reminder that merely increasing law enforcement presence is insufficient if the root causes of illegal mining—including corruption and lack of accountability—are not addressed.
As the government intensifies its efforts to combat illegal mining, calls for transparency and integrity in local governance have become more pronounced. The former galamsey operator’s insights shed light on the urgent need for comprehensive reforms that hold officials accountable and create a more transparent mining sector.
Source: OccupyGh.com
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