Omanghana
The political and social advocacy group Ashanti Democrats has petitioned the Ashanti Regional Police Command and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to conduct an independent investigation into allegations of illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey, in the Ahafo Ano South East District.
The petition, dated July 15, 2026, and officially received by the Police Command on July 17, 2026, calls for a comprehensive and impartial inquiry into the claims, with the group emphasizing the need to protect Ghana’s natural resources and preserve public confidence in state institutions responsible for regulating mining activities.
Allegations Involving Local Officials
In its submission to the Police, Ashanti Democrats referenced public allegations made against two prominent officials within the Ahafo Ano South East constituency:
- Mohammed Yakubu – Member of Parliament for Ahafo Ano South East.
- Ibrahim Yamba-Nehon – District Chief Executive for Ahafo Ano South East.
The group, however, acknowledged in its petition that both officials have publicly denied any involvement in illegal mining operations.
Ashanti Democrats stated that the purpose of the petition is not to prejudge the individuals involved but to ensure that the allegations are independently investigated and that the truth is established through due process.
Call for Evidence-Based Investigation
As part of its request to the Police, the group has called for local blogger Amaru Shakur to be invited by the CID to assist with investigations.
The petition urged investigators to obtain any evidence, documentation, or source materials in the blogger’s possession that may help clarify the claims made regarding alleged illegal mining activities in the district.
According to the group, gathering all available information will ensure that the investigation is thorough, transparent, and based on credible evidence.
Concerns Over Environmental Destruction
The Ashanti Democrats delegation, led by its President Jerry James Sukah, expressed concern over the environmental consequences often associated with illegal mining activities.
The group noted that allegations of galamsey naturally generate public anxiety because of the widespread damage linked to illegal mining, including the destruction of water bodies, forest reserves, and farmlands.
They emphasized that protecting Ghana’s natural resources requires strong accountability measures and that allegations involving public officials must be addressed through credible investigations.
Importance of Public Confidence
The group said an independent police inquiry would help maintain confidence in state institutions and demonstrate that no individual, regardless of position or influence, is above scrutiny.
Ashanti Democrats stressed that transparent investigations are essential to strengthening Ghana’s fight against illegal mining and ensuring that environmental protection laws are properly enforced.
National Attention on Illegal Mining
The petition comes amid renewed national discussions on illegal mining and government efforts to address the growing environmental and economic impact of galamsey.
It also follows major developments in Ghana’s broader anti-illegal mining campaign, including the conviction of Bernard Antwi Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi), the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who was sentenced to 20 years in prison by the High Court in connection with separate illegal mining offences involving Akonta Mining Company.
The Ashanti Democrats said the current petition should be treated as an opportunity to reinforce accountability and ensure that all allegations of illegal mining are investigated fairly, regardless of the status of persons mentioned.
The Police Command is expected to review the petition and determine the next steps as investigations into the matter unfold.
Source: Omanghana
