Transfer all police commanders in galamsey areas – Muntaka to IGP

The Minister for the Interior, Alhaji Muntaka Mubarak, has directed the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to transfer all Regional, Divisional, and District Police Commanders working in mining areas across the country. This decision aims to replace officers who have not been effective in stopping illegal mining activities.

Alhaji Muntaka explained that the government is taking this step as part of its efforts to stop galamsey in Ghana. The affected commanders will be moved to areas without mining activities. Their replacements will be given three months to show they can effectively combat illegal mining.

During a meeting with Imams and Zongo Chiefs in Kumasi, Alhaji Muntaka stated:

“I have ordered the IGP to transfer all police commanders in all mining areas and send in new ones. So, if you are a Regional, Divisional, and District Police Commander serving in mining areas, you will be changed with immediate effect.”

“The new ones we are taking there will be transferred after three months if they don’t perform. We will keep making changes till we see results.”

This directive shows the government’s commitment to strengthening law enforcement in the fight against illegal mining. Illegal mining poses a significant threat to Ghana’s environment and water resources.

Galamsey, or illegal mining, has been a major problem in Ghana. It has severe environmental and health consequences. According to the Ghana Government, galamsey has led to the destruction of water bodies, forests, and farmlands. It has also resulted in the loss of lives and livelihoods.

In recent years, the government has taken steps to address the issue. These steps include deploying military personnel to mining areas and establishing a task force to combat galamsey. However, the problem persists. The latest directive by the Interior Minister is seen as a significant step towards addressing the issue.