The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) says persistent interference from influential figures, including some chiefs and politicians, continues to weaken the national campaign against illegal mining.
Speaking at a stakeholder meeting in Sekondi on Sunday, December 7, the Deputy Director of Operations at NAIMOS, Lieutenant Colonel Joshua Satekla, said the secretariat remains committed to tackling galamsey, but its work is being frustrated by people who wield local power.
He briefed 14 Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) in the Western Region, together with two Regional Police Commanders, and noted that illegal mining hotspots demand strict enforcement and the full cooperation of local authorities to maintain effective no-go zones.
Lt. Col. Satekla explained that the success of ongoing operations relies heavily on support from local leaders, but this is often compromised.
“Every institution has challenges, and we are no exception. One of our biggest challenges is interference from influential people. We encounter this from politicians, chiefs and other stakeholders in areas where we operate, and it is a serious issue that must be addressed. Another challenge is logistics,” he said.
Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson reiterated government’s resolve to end illegal mining and called on all MMDCEs to support President John Dramani Mahama’s efforts to eliminate the menace.