The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has issued a warning to mining companies operating in Ghana, cautioning that firms will face sanctions if they fail to prevent illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, within their concessions.
The Authority says it is increasingly concerned about the growing presence of illegal miners operating on legally acquired mining concessions, a situation it describes as a major threat to environmental protection and regulatory compliance.
According to the EPA, mining companies have a legal responsibility to safeguard the integrity of their concession areas and ensure that unauthorised mining activities are not allowed to take place.
The regulator stressed that it will not hesitate to apply strict enforcement measures, including penalties, against companies that fail to control illegal operations within their licensed zones.
The EPA noted that illegal mining continues to contribute significantly to environmental degradation, including land destruction, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity in mining communities.
Officials say the crackdown forms part of broader efforts to strengthen environmental governance and ensure that all mining activities in the country comply with existing laws and regulations.
The Authority has further warned that intensified monitoring and inspections will continue, and any company found complicit, whether through negligence or collaboration, will face the full force of the law.
