Cape Coast: In a bid to tackle illegal mining activities, Central Regional Council of State member, Mr. Hakim Addei, has joined forces with the Twifo Atti Morkwa Police Command led by Superintendent Charles Addei Boateng to combat illegal mining activities in the area. The move aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s measures to prioritize the eradication of illegal mining across the country.
According to Ghana News Agency, Hakim Addei, who toured mining sites in Paso and beyond, mentioned that President Mahama has alternative plans for the youth involved in illegal mining. He urged them to cease their activities to save water bodies in the country. He emphasized the need for support from the government to provide the necessary resources, such as life jackets and speed boats, to aid the security services in their fight against galamsey.
The Central Regional Minister, Mr. Ekow Panyin Eduamoah, during a visit to the area, also called for immediate action to remove all illegal mining equipment on the region’s rivers. The collaboration between the Council of State member and the District Police Command aims to protect the Pra River, which serves thousands of people in the Central Region.
The river’s pollution has affected Ghana Water Limited’s ability to extract raw water, resulting in erratic water supply to communities in Cape Coast and its surrounding areas. The Omanhene of the Atti Morkwa Traditional Council, Oseadeayo Nana Kwesi Kenin IV, also warned illegal miners to remove their equipment immediately to avoid prosecution.