Minerals Commission refutes galamsey claims against Dela Edem 

The Minerals Commission has dismissed allegations linking its Head of Corporate Communications, Dela Edem, to illegal mining activities, describing the claims as false, defamatory, and intended to mislead the public.

In a press statement issued in June 2026, Mr. Edem said reports suggesting he was involved in illegal mining operations were untrue and failed to reflect the circumstances surrounding his presence at a mining site in the Jomoro District.

According to the statement, he was part of a joint team made up of officials from rCOMSDEP, the Minerals Commission, and National Security that visited the district on June 6, 2026, to launch a Cooperative Mining Programme aimed at promoting responsible and legal mining practices.

The statement explained that while at Ghana Nungua Apatase, members of the team encountered a group of aggrieved youth protesting against an individual alleged to have been impersonating officials of rCOMSDEP and the Minerals Commission. The suspect had reportedly erected unauthorized banners bearing the names of the institutions and was carrying out illegal mining activities near a river.

Mr. Edem said the team immediately collaborated with National Security operatives and the Ghana Police Service to address the situation and prevent further unlawful activities.

“This is not true. I was on official duty as part of a joint team from rCOMSDEP, the Minerals Commission and National Security. I was not involved in any illegal activity,” he stated.

He noted that equipment being used at the illegal mining site was seized during the operation as part of efforts to enforce mining regulations and protect the environment from further degradation.

The Corporate Communications Head stressed that the Minerals Commission and rCOMSDEP strongly condemn the misuse of their names by individuals seeking to legitimize illegal mining operations.

“The institutions remain committed to legal and responsible mining and will continue to work with relevant stakeholders to combat illegal mining across the country,” the statement said.

Mr. Edem further urged the public and media organizations to disregard the allegations and verify information before publication, warning that the spread of misinformation could damage reputations and undermine efforts to regulate the mining sector.

He also disclosed that legal action would be taken against persons responsible for publishing and circulating the claims.

The Minerals Commission reiterated its commitment to ensuring that Ghana’s mineral resources are exploited in accordance with the law and in a manner that safeguards communities and the environment.