Gomoa fetteh: The Central Regional Security Council has declared a crackdown on illegal sand winning activities at Gomoa Fetteh in the Gomoa East District to prevent a looming disaster along the coastal areas. Many coastal settlements are at risk due to these activities, which have severely eroded the buffer and sand dunes, crucial natural barriers against the sea.
According to Ghana News Agency, the illegal sand mining has devastated the coast, reducing much of the highland to sea level, leaving only a thin wall of sand between the sea and the communities. This precarious situation poses a significant threat to thousands of lives and properties in the event of high tidal waves. The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) warns that several communities, including Gomoa Yesukrom, Millennium City, Nyanyano, Buduburam, and Tuba, could be submerged.
To prevent this catastrophe, the Central Regional Security Council, led by Regional Minister Mr. Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah, and the Director of Special Operations of the National Security Secretariat, Mr. Richard Japka, conducted an assessment with security heads, including the Police, Fire Service, and NADMO. Despite the absence of sand winners, the destruction left behind is evident and alarming.
Mr. Eduamoah expressed concern over the situation, comparing it to the illegal gold mining crisis due to its environmental and economic impacts. He warned that if the sand winning continues, communities could be swept away within five months. He assured that the Council and National Security Secretariat are committed to stopping the illegal activities and bringing perpetrators to justice.
The Regional Minister emphasized the urgency of addressing this security issue and encouraged citizens and media to focus on environmental destruction. He stated that political issues dominate media attention, urging a shift towards developmental concerns and accountability for those in authority.
Mr. Patrick Winibood Ndego, leader of the pressure group Eagle Eyesight, commended the authorities for their commitment. He criticized the local police and traditional authorities for their inaction and alleged complicity. Mr. Ndego called for the dissolution of the Central East Regional Police Command and expressed readiness to provide evidence for investigations.
Mr. Kwesi Dawood, Central Regional Director of NADMO, labeled the destruction a national security threat and pledged proactive measures. He highlighted the ongoing illegal sand carting activities, stressing the need to prevent an avoidable disaster driven by short-term economic interests.
