Omanghana
The Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has called for stronger security intervention against illegal mining after witnessing extensive environmental damage at Osino in the Eastern Region.
During a tour of the area, she expressed concern that illegal mining activities were taking place less than 200 metres from a major road despite ongoing efforts to restore degraded land. She subsequently urged the Eastern Regional Security Council to act against the operations.
About 20 suspected illegal miners reportedly fled upon seeing the minister and her delegation near the Birim River. The incident highlighted concerns about continued mining along the waterway and the destruction of surrounding land.
Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings warned that the consequences extended beyond damaged landscapes. She likened the uncontrolled use of hazardous substances, including mercury and cyanide, to “chemical warfare,” arguing that it endangered public health as well as the environment.
She also advocated fast-track environmental courts to expedite the prosecution of environmental offences and strengthen enforcement.
As part of a coordinated government response, the minister pledged closer collaboration with the Environmental Protection Authority, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, and National Security to enforce mining rules and support land reclamation.
Her appeal places renewed emphasis on combining security operations, regulatory enforcement and restoration efforts to address the damage caused by illegal mining.
Source: Omanghana
