Galamsey unfolding right behind Anyinam police station – Minerals Commission CEO
Illegal mining, commonly known as ‘galamsey’, is occurring alarmingly close to a police station in Anyinam, located in the Atiwa East District in the Eastern Region.
The Chief Executive of the Minerals Commission, Martin Ayisi, revealed this troubling situation during his appearance before the Parliament’s Government Assurances Committee on October 7.
He noted that multiple reports about these illegal activities have been submitted to the police, yet no action has been taken to address the issue.
This lack of response raises serious concerns about law enforcement’s effectiveness in tackling illegal mining operations, especially in such a visible location.
The persistence of galamsey in areas under police surveillance highlights the urgent need for enhanced measures and accountability to protect both the environment and community safety.
“We have reported severally that behind the Anyinam police station, people are doing some down there which we have not permitted.
Mr. Ayisi expressed his concern, asking, “Why isn’t the police taking action?”
He firmly opposed calls to stop issuing new mining licenses, emphasizing the need for regulation rather than restriction.
He argues that if new licenses are not granted, individuals will inevitably turn to illegal mining, a practice that poses significant risks to the environment and public safety.
In response to concerns about the Commission’s capabilities, Mr. Ayisi firmly denied claims of being understaffed.
He maintained that the Commission has adequate funding to secure the necessary logistics and human resources required for effective oversight and inspectorate duties.
However, the Chairman of the Parliament’s Government Assurances Committee, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, held a contrasting perspective.
He believes that Mr. Ayisi’s rationale only reinforces the need for a suspension of small-scale mining licenses.
According to Ablakwa, the ongoing challenges surrounding illegal mining and the inadequacies in the licensing process underscore the necessity for a thorough reevaluation of the situation before proceeding further.
This debate highlights a critical tension between regulating the mining sector and addressing the urgent issue of illegal mining, which continues to threaten the environment and local communities.