Bodua: Mrs Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, the Eastern Regional Minister, has expressed her condolences to the family of Samson Seku, a 14-year-old boy who was discovered dead in an illegal mining pit at Bodua in the Dekyembour District of the Eastern Region.
According to Ghana News Agency, Samson Seku is said to have left home on March 6, Independence Day, to play with his peers but did not return, and his mortal remains were discovered in an exposed galamsey pit. The minister stressed that such a horrible occurrence should not happen again in the region or any part of the country.
She emphasised the consequences of illegal mining, saying galamsey did not only harm the environment but also posed a serious threat to human life. ‘President Mahama does not oppose responsible mining activities. Therefore, all illegal miners should cease mining in river bodies and forest reserves because we will come after you regardless of your political colour, and we will make you face the full force of the law if you are caught,’ she said.
She stated that all lands touched by galamsey would be reclaimed to prevent such sad tragedies and encouraged the bereaved family to remain strong as they grieve their ward during this tough time. Mr. Vicent Akorley, Assemblymember for the Bodua East Electoral Area, spoke on behalf of the grieving family, expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the minister for mourning with them.
He urged the government to promptly implement tough laws, regulations, and measures to combat illegal mining in the area and across the country. Mr. Akorley pledged the community’s cooperation in collaboration with the district security council to combat galamsey.
