Prosecute Akonta Mining immediately – Coalition against galamsey tells government – Nsemkeka
The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey is demanding the immediate prosecution of Akonta Mining Ltd, accusing the government of dragging its feet to sanction individuals and organisations involved in illegal mining, also known as galamsey.
In a strong-worded release on Sunday, May 18, the anti-galamsey group descended on authorities for a lack of action after the company was alleged to have engaged in illegal mining some months ago.
“The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey is highly disappointed and shocked by the government’s copious failure to enforce Ghana’s laws against the criminal conduct of Akonta Mining Ltd,” Convenor, Kenneth Ashigbey, noted in the statement.
“Through its own investigations, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources published a documentary on the illegal activities of Akonta Mining and the extent of devastation caused by their irresponsible and unlawful activities. We were assured of swift action against the directors of Akonta mining and government officials (Mineral Commission, Forestry Commission and Security Services) found culpable through negligence or aiding and abetting. It has been a month on, and yet no arrest has been effected, nor has prosecution commenced. This sets a dangerous precedent as it paints a picture of the reign of impunity and political accommodation”.
The anti-galamsey body noted that Akonta Mining has been operating illegally since 2022, contributing significantly to the pollution of the Tano River and the destruction of the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.
The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey acknowledged the government’s efforts “to freeze the accounts of Akonta Mining Ltd, which confirms its recognition of the company’s involvement in illegal activities”, but was quick to add that “there is no justification for the continued delay in prosecuting those responsible”.
The group is therefore urging the government “to arrest and prosecute the Managing Director/CEO, all Directors of Akonta Mining Ltd, and any culpable government officials without further delay, as a clear testament of its commitment to fighting galamsey”.
Below is the full statement.