We should treat facilitators of illegal mining as terrorists – Ken Ashigbey
The convener of Media Coalition against Illegal Mining, Ken Ashigbey, has called for strict laws in dealing with individuals who are found culpable in engaging in illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, the activist, likened illegal miners to terrorists, adding that their activities threaten the nation’s ecosystem.
He subsequently questioned why the government is not treating culprits like how the state handles treachery and treason.
“It is not normal, what we are doing, I am not too sure any generation of Ghanaians have done what we are doing to ourselves so it is really important that we now start applying shock and awe to all of us to realize that this thing we are doing to ourselves is life-threatening.
“You see the way we deal with terrorists? The way we approach them? How come we are not doing with people who are doing this to us the same way we deal with terrorists?” he quizzed.
He further questioned the commitment of government in clamping down on galamsey in the country.
According to him, some well-known small-scale mining companies, such as, Akonta and Heritage Imperial mining companies have been found culpable in engaging in illegal mining, however, its managers are walking freely.
Examples like these, is what make Mr Ashigbey lose trust in the Akufo-Addo government in dealing with the menace.
Nonetheless, just two days ago, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor said government will not give up on the fight against the canker.
According to Mr Jinapor, government is initiating more interventions to help in the fight against illegal mining in the country.
Source: Ghana News
