High Court Judge Justice Lydia Osei-Marfo has called for amendments to the Minerals and Mining Act to target chiefs and landowners who provide their lands to illegal miners.
Speaking during the sentencing of Aisha Huang, a Chinese national involved in illegal mining, the judge stressed the need to prosecute not only illegal miners but also those allocating land for such activities.
Aisha Huang received a four-and-a-half-year prison sentence and a GH₵48,000 fine for multiple offenses related to illegal mining.
The judge emphasized the environmental damage caused by such activities and urged stronger measures against those involved.
After Justice Lydia Osei-Marfo delivered her judgment, Miracle Attachey, counsel for the accused Aisha Huang, pleaded with the court to consider leniency based on her compliance with court and security officials since her arrest a year ago.
He argued that imposing a sentence would financially burden the state and proposed a fine and repatriation instead.
However, Director of Public Prosecutions Yvonne Atakora Obuobisa opposed the plea, advocating for the accused to face the maximum jail sentence and a substantial fine.
Justice Osei-Marfo emphasized the environmental damage caused by Aisha Huang’s actions and noted the failure of security officials to conduct due diligence in granting her papers upon her second return.
Deputy Attorney General Alfred Tuah-Yeboah has provided clarification regarding the comparatively lenient prison sentence and fine handed to Chinese illegal mining kingpin Aisha Huang.
He explained that Aisha Huang was prosecuted for her participation in illegal mining activities between 2015 and 2017, a period predating the passing of the amended law.
Tuah-Yeboah underscored that there is no evidence indicating her involvement in illegal mining subsequent to her return to Ghana in 2022, following her initial deportation in 2018.
This distinction in timelines played a crucial role in the legal proceedings and the sentencing.
“When we arrested her last year [2022], there was no evidence that when she came back to Ghana, she committed illegal mining offenses. We probed into it and we didn’t find any evidence. If there had been, it would have been another matter,” he said.
Mr. Tuah-Yeboah’s clarification comes in response to public scrutiny over the imprisonment of the Chinese national, Aisha Huang, for four and a half years and a GH₵48,000 fine. Some Ghanaians questioned the perceived leniency of the punishment, considering the extensive environmental damage caused by the ‘galamsey’ queen’s operations.
Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express on Monday, the Deputy Attorney General explained that the case was based on evidence collected between 2015 and 2017. He highlighted the prosecution’s reliance on various testimonies, including those from local farmers who claimed that Miss Huang had negotiated with them to use their land for illegal mining.
Mr. Tuah-Yeboah also commended the Ghana Immigration Service for its crucial role in the case. The service had arrested the illegal mining kingpin in 2018, leading to her subsequent deportation. The timeline and the evidence presented during the specified period were key factors in the legal proceedings and the resulting sentence.
“The law is about evidence and not speculation. Aisha Huang’s case was prosecuted based on the evidence that we had between 2015 and 2017. Nothing more, nothing less,” Tuah-Yeboah reiterated.
“If you have a new law that has reduced the punishment under the old law, use it. But if the old law is lesser than the new law, use the old law; that is the law,” Tuah-Yeboah explained.
The Deputy Attorney General expressed the Attorney General’s office’s inclination toward a harsher sentence for Miss Huang, citing the minimum sentencing guidelines applicable to foreign nationals. However, he reiterated that the judge had adhered to constitutional provisions and the interpretation act by applying the appropriate sentencing guidelines.
The Amended Minerals and Mining Act not only increases penalties for illegal mining but also explicitly criminalizes aiding and abetting illegal mining activities and the use of certain equipment for mining in water bodies. It mandates a minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum of 25 years for foreigners engaged in illegal mining, with deportation following their sentence.
Notably, the amended law has been enforced against some Ghanaians. In October 2023, the Tarkwa Circuit Court sentenced twenty-one Ghanaians to a total of 340 years in prison for illegal mining in the Western Region.
The court, presided over by Hathia Ama Manu, also imposed fines totaling GH¢2.52 million, in addition to the jail terms ranging from 15 to 20 years.
Despite their initial pleas of not guilty, the court found them guilty, concluding that the prosecution, led by the Attorney-General’s Office in Sekondi, had sufficiently proven their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Former Member of Parliament for Tamale-Central, Inusah Fuseini, contends that the nation’s strategy in combating illegal mining reflects a lack of determination to eradicate the menace.
He specifically points to the lenient sentence given to Aisha Huang, a notorious figure in illegal mining, as evidence that the country is not fully committed to putting an end to the problem.
“I think the Aisha Huang case and the conviction and the sentence is another vivid demonstration of our lack of commitment in fighting this canker. The first arrest of Aisha Huang was under a legal regime that imposed or criminalised illegal mining and imposed a sentence that was higher than four and half years,” he said at “JoyNews National Dialogue of Illegal Mining” on December 4.
Mr. Fuseini, a former Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, expressed his response to a recent Accra High Court verdict in which the ‘galamsey queen,’ a Chinese national known as En Huang (Aisha Huang), received a four-and-a-half-year prison sentence and a GH₵48,000 fine.
En Huang faced charges related to engaging in mining without a license, facilitating others in illegal mining operations, employing foreigners unlawfully, and entering Ghana despite being prohibited from re-entry.
The ex-minister emphasized that during his tenure at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, it was recognized that the existing sentencing structure was insufficient and lacked the necessary deterrence.
As a result, amendments were made to address this issue. Consequently, Mr. Fuseini argued that the court’s decision to apply the old mining regime was concerning and did not send a strong signal, given the efforts made to strengthen the legal framework during his time in office.
“We seemed to be suggesting that this canker can be tolerated,” he added.
Furthermore, he asserted that environmental crimes, on a global scale, are tantamount to crimes against humanity and should not be justified under the guise of mineral exploitation. To support his argument, he shared a video depicting a woman who experienced a stillbirth, attributing it to the adverse effects of residing in a community affected by illegal mining.
Mr. Fuseini contended that this issue goes beyond mere economic considerations; it poses a direct threat to both our existence and the country’s economy. He emphasized that the ramifications of illegal mining are immeasurable and expose the nation to dangers that cannot be easily quantified.
The former legislator insisted that a more concerted and resolute effort is required to confront this pervasive problem, echoing the determination demonstrated by other nations facing similar challenges.
Notorious Chinese national, En Huang, also known as Aisha Huang, has been sentenced to four years and six months in prison for engaging in illegal mining and re-entering Ghana after being deported. She has also been fined GH¢48,000 and ordered to be deported again after serving her jail term.
The Criminal Division of the Accra High Court, presided over by Justice Lydia Osei-Marfo, found her guilty on the charges of undertaking a mining operation without a licence, facilitating the participation of persons engaged in a mining operation, the illegal employment of foreigners, and entering Ghana while prohibited from re-entry.
The court ruled that the state, led by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Yvonne Atokora Obuobisa, had proven beyond reasonable doubt that Aisha committed the crimes. The court also noted that Aisha contradicted herself in her defence statements in the trial, which lasted for one year and two months.
Aisha, who appeared calm and collected in the dock, wearing a nose mask and a white scarf, was convicted on her own plea on the charge of entering Ghana while prohibited from re-entry. She had entered into a Plea Bargaining agreement with the State (office of the Attorney General) on May 3, this year.
During the plea of mitigation, Aisha’s counsel, Miracle Attachey, highlighted her time in custody since October 2022 and requested the court to impose a fine and deportation rather than a custodial sentence. He emphasized the potential financial burden on the state, especially the prison service.
In response, the DPP argued for a maximum custodial sentence and deportation, considering the impact of Aisha’s actions on affected families and witnesses. She stressed that the sentence should reflect the gravity of Aisha’s actions on the people of Ghana and the communities she had adversely affected.
Aisha Huang was accused of being in the thick of affairs of illegal mining, also known as galamsey, especially in the Ashanti Region. She was deported from the country in 2018, after the Attorney General decided to discontinue her trial in which she was accused of engaging in small-scale mining without a licence.
She was said to have snuck back into the country to allegedly engage in the same activities for which she was deported. In October 2022, the Attorney General then decided to prosecute her for the alleged crimes before her deportation and new ones committed since her entry back into the country.
It is the case of the prosecution that Aisha had an illegal mining concession at Bepotenten in the Amansie West District in the Ashanti Region and also operated a mining support services company; she had pleaded not guilty to undertaking a mining operation without a licence, facilitating the participation of persons engaged in a mining operation, the illegal employment of foreigners, and entering Ghana while prohibited from re-entry. But on May 3, this year, Aisha pleaded guilty to entering Ghana while prohibited from re-entry contrary to section 20(4) of the Immigration Act, 2000, Act 573.
A recently resurfaced video features Ken Agyapong, the Member of Parliament for Assin Central, making predictions about the Office of the Special Prosecutor. This follows the recent public expression of frustration by the incumbent Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng.
In the video, which captures Agyapong’s appearance on Net 2 TV, the outspoken politician foretells Agyebeng’s failure to fulfil his mandate.
Agyapong attributes this predicted failure to the pervasive corruption within the ruling party, specifically highlighting issues related to illegal small-scale mining, commonly known as “galamsey.” According to Agyapong, these corruption challenges will likely impede the effectiveness of the Special Prosecutor’s efforts.
“You are going to appoint a Special Prosecutor; you see, when I point out a finger, the remaining four point back at you, NPP. You will not be able to prosecute anyone. I am speaking in parables to you,” he stated.
“There are greedy bastards in galamsey. NPP people are greedy bastards when it comes to galamsey,” he added.
Upon assuming office in 2017, the current government of the New Patriotic Party, led by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, placed a significant emphasis on combating corruption.
A key component of their anti-corruption agenda during the campaign in opposition was the establishment of a Special Prosecutor’s Office dedicated to investigating and prosecuting individuals for corruption and related offenses.
However, the initial appointee to lead this office, Martin Amidu, a former Attorney-General, resigned in November 2020, citing alleged interference in his work by President Akufo-Addo. Despite the president’s denial of Amidu’s claims, Kissi Agyebeng, a private legal practitioner, was subsequently appointed to head the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).
In a press conference held on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, Mr. Agyebeng expressed concerns about a concerning pattern of dismissive rulings in the corruption cases he was actively pursuing.
He went on to caution that such a trend could have severe consequences for Ghana’s ongoing anti-corruption efforts. This situation raises questions about the effectiveness and independence of the Special Prosecutor’s Office in the fight against corruption.
“Indeed I have had several calls from well-meaning lawyers admonishing me that they have heard talk that our friends who have been elevated to the bench and presiding over cases in court do not take very kindly to criticism, especially of the public calling out variety as we do.
“And that if the office persists in the media releases, the judges will gang up against the office and throw out all our cases. Mind you, members of the press, collective admonishing is from very senior and experienced lawyers who are members of the law.
“Members of the press, my learning of the law for the past 25 years in three different jurisdictions, my teaching and training of lawyers and law students for the past 17 years, my 20-year record at the bar all bear testimony that I will be the last person to lead an institution to attack the judiciary.
“It will be absolutely of no good should it be the case that the OSP is set against the judiciary or that the judiciary is against the OSP. That will surely spell disastrous consequences for this republic, especially in the fight against corruption to the glee of corrupt persons.”
Mr Agyebeng added, “I do not intend to sound as though I’m predicting doom but we are facing doom. With this development, it will not be long, before a suspected murderer or armed robber will boldly walk to court with the unthinkable prayer that the court should injunct law enforcement agencies from investigating him.”
The Minority Members on the Lands and Forestry Committee of Parliament have criticized the government for its alleged failure to account for funds disbursed in the fight against illegal mining, commonly known as ‘galamsey,’ in the 2024 Budget.
The group claims that $30 million was allocated quarterly to the now-defunct inter-ministerial committee for three years, with an additional GH¢5 million used in the government’s engagements with traditional leaders and security agencies to address the galamsey issue.
Speaking to the media, Deputy Ranking Member on the Lands and Forestry Committee, Alhassan Suhuyini, emphasized the need for the government to be transparent and accountable to the public in its efforts to combat ‘galamsey.’
“Shouldn’t we be asking ourselves why, this time in the budget statement, not even once has the ‘galamsey’ word been mentioned? After we have spent millions of Ghana cedis. The Interministerial committee was allocated $30 million every quarter, and they operated for three years.”
“That should tell you how much money has gone down the drain; they blew GH¢5.4 million just to interact on ‘galamsey.’ The question is, to what end? What are the benefits that we have from all of these?” Alhassan Suhuyini asked.
Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Mpraeso, Davis Opoku Ansah, wants the government to consider the establishment of a fund to repair the damage caused to river bodies by galamsey.
“Mr. Speaker, everybody is talking about ‘galamsey’ and how it has destroyed our water bodies. There’s the need for a fund to be set aside so that monies deposited in this fund will be used to repair destroyed rivers, construct new waters for our people, and ensure that the Ghanaian is assured of good drinking water,” Davis Opoku Ansah suggested.
Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Dr. Freda Prempeh, emphasizes collective responsibility in the fight against galamsey
Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Dr. Freda Prempeh, asserts that the battle against galamsey, particularly concerning water-related issues, should not be entrusted solely to a chosen few. She expressed that while traditional leaders and community members have significant roles to play, the primary responsibility rests with every Ghanaian.
During her inaugural interview as the minister of the sector, conducted by GhanaWeb TV’s Etsey Atisu, Dr. Freda Prempeh underscored the need for broader efforts to protect Ghana’s water resources.
“I think I heard Dormaahene somewhere in the media saying that nobody can come to Dormaa and mine… and so you see that the rivers there are clean. So, we all have to put our feet down.
“It’s a collective effort. I cannot fight it alone; you cannot fight it alone, because if they come and we don’t give them access, if they come and we stop them, if they come and we report them, do you think they will continue to come? But when they come, we accept them because we think that we can make a penny or two from what they are coming to do, forgetting that we are contaminating – all those things are affecting our water bodies,” she said.
She also outlined some of the initiatives her ministryis taking to try to maintain Ghana’s sanitation standards.
Following the resignation of her predecessor, Cecilia Dapaah, and a court case in which she is attempting to recover approximately $1 million purportedly stolen from her Abelemkpe home by two house assistants, Freda Prempeh was named minister of the sector.
Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu, has called on the government and the relevant authorities to make public their investigations into illegal mining claims in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve by Akonta Mining Limited, a company said to be owned by the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi.
He made this statement during a discussion on TV3’s The Key Points over the weekend while noting that it has been over a year since the government commenced probing.
“Around this time last year, four of us reported Akonta Mining to the CID. They are still investigating. We haven’t met CID Boss Madam Faustina Coffie, in the last four months. She said they were still investigating and we should be patient. Madam Coffie, it has been long. This thing is not rocket science.
“We have been very patient. We have giving you enough time. Writing to Minerals Commission on confirmation whether there were leases. One year, it’s been long. Investigations have to conclude at a certain point.
“Let the court decide. We need some accountability. So because it is Chairman Wontumi, investigations can go on for a long time. We have seen the destruction. Babies are born with deformities. So this is a case we should rush to court so confidence will be reposed in the system. No event will come and over take this,” he said.
Mr Kpebu was reacting to the Attorney General’s opinion on former Environment Minister, Prof. Frimpong-Boateng’s galamsey report that held some government officials complicit.
In September 2022, news broke that Akonta Mining Limited was illegally mining in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, in a statement on September 30, 2022, confirmed this and later instructed the Forestry Commission to halt the operations of Akonta Mining Limited in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.
According to the Ministry, even though Akonta Mining Limited has a lease to undertake mining activity in some parts of Samreboi, outside the Forest Reserve, “the company has no mineral right to undertake any mining operations in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve”.
Its records showed that Akonta Mining Ltd, on August 25, 2022, applied for a Mining Lease to undertake mining operations in the said Forest Reserve.
In October, the government ordered the burning of the ‘galamsey’ site structures in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve said to belong to Akonta Mining Limited.
Following this, four persons petitioned the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service to investigate and prosecute Akonta Mining Limited and the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi over illegal mining activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.
The four are the Convenor of the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, Dr Kenneth Ashigbey; private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu; the co-chairman of the Citizens Movement Against Corruption, Edem Senanu, and a fellow of the Centre for Democratic Development, Ghana (CDD-Ghana), Kwame Asiedu.
In their petition, they say the actions of Akonta Mining Limited are contrary to the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) as amended by the Minerals and Mining (Amendment Act) Act 2019, (Act 995).
“A review of the enclosed documentary (Annexure 1) by Multimedia (JOY FM) and Erastus Asare Donkor, shows that in the months of August and September 2022, the above-mentioned company and Chairman Wontumi undertook illegal mining/mining operations in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. Indeed the same persons conducted prospecting in the same Forest without the requisite licences/permits.
Akonta Mining went into the Forest with excavators, pumping machines, power generators, cars, and other equipment. Then they cleared some parts of the forest of the trees and other vegetation. They subsequently excavated the soil and undertook other mining operations as shown in the videos,” the petition said.
In January this year, President Akufo-Addo, in a public statement, cleared Akonta Mining of any illegal mining activities, affirming that the company was not engaged in such activities anywhere in the country.
The President made this statement during his address at the Catholic Bishops Conference and the 16th Biennial Congress of the National Union of Ghana Catholic Diocesan Priests Association held in Koforidua, Eastern Region.
“Let me respond briefly to the chairperson on the issue of illegal mining. I want to assure him and all of you that Akonta Mining is not engaged in any illegal activities in any part of the country as we speak,” he said.
“Further, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has, through the Forestry Commission and with the assistance of the military, cordoned off all 294 sites of forest reserves in thecountry and rid them of illegal miningas we speak,” President Akufo-Addo added.
Former Environment Minister, Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, has issued a response to the Attorney General’s Office, which had called for “concrete evidence” regarding the allegations made in his report concerning illegal mining activities in the country.
Last week, the Attorney General’s office had stated that the allegations in Prof. Frimpong-Boateng’s report lacked substance and lacked the necessary evidence to prosecute the individuals named in it.
However, in a swift retort, the former Minister emphasized that he had fulfilled his role as the Chairman of a Committee tasked with compiling a comprehensive report on the activities of illegal miners in the country.
“What does he mean by hard evidence? I mean as somebody who has written a report what evidence do you expect from me apart from words, documents, videos, pictures?
“I am not an investigative agent, that is not my job. I was a chairman of a committee and I wrote a report, so you [as an Attorney General] have to go round and see whether what I am saying is true or otherwise,” he said during an interview on Accra-based TV3.
The former Environment Minister made a notable observation regarding the present state of illegal mining, known as “galamsey.”
In his assessment, he pointed out that the issue of illegal mining has escalated, surpassing previous levels. He further mentioned that the Attorney General’s office should encounter no difficulties in gathering substantial evidence if they were to investigate the areas within the forests where these activities are taking place.
“We have regional Ministers, DCEs, MPs, police personnel, Customs and Forestry Commission personnel scattered across Ghana, are they not seeing these things? If you go there, you’ll get your evidence.”
Background
Prof. Frimpong-Boateng provided a list of government officials who, according to him, obstructed his anti-illegal mining efforts during his tenure as the Environment Minister.
In the document he submitted, the distinguished surgeon named specific individuals whom he alleges hindered both his personal efforts and the progress of the committee he led in combatting the issue commonly referred to as ‘galamsey.’
“Throughout our struggle with illegalities in the small-scale mining sector, what baffled me was the total disregard of the President’s commitment to protecting the environment.
“I can state without any equivocation that many party officials from the national to the unit committee level had their friends, PAs, agents, relatives, financiers, or relatives engaged in illegal mining. Most of them engaged Chinese working for them.
“I am not referring to party people who had their legitimate concession and were mining sustainably as they were instructed to do.
“There are appointees in the Jubilee House that are doing or supporting illegal mining or interfering with the fight against the menace,” excerpts of the document said.
Now, the Attorney-General’s advice, dated Tuesday, September 12, and conveyed to the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service on Thursday, September 14, and signed by Chief State Attorney Evelyn Keelson, states that it cannot recommend the prosecution of any of the individuals cited in the report.
Consequently, the Attorney-General has instructed the police to release the individuals mentioned from any legal action, with the exception of those who are still under ongoing investigation.
“The Attorney-General indicates that a careful study of the Report, the various documents and pen drives submitted to the Police did not disclose any evidence in support of the allegations made against the persons cited in the Report, with the exception of Seth Mantey, John Ofori Atta and Ekow Ewusi, in respect of whom the A-G instructs the Police to conclude their investigations and present a report to him.”
“The A-G’s advice, however, notes that even though the Police diary of action shows that John Ofori Atta was invited by the police, there is no indication that he was interviewed or that a statement was taken from him. There is also no statement from Mr Ekow Ewusi on the docket. The A-G instructed the Police to wind up investigations on that issue and furnish him with a report on same.”
Hence claims against the Information Minister, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, Charles Owusu, Charles Nii Teiko Tagoe, Reynolds Kwabi, a Director of Heritage Imperial Company Limited, Joseph Albert Quarm, Captain (rtd) Edmund Kojo Koda have not been proven.
The Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has condemned the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) for its stance on the government’s handling of illegal mining, known as galamsey.
He argues that the NDC lacks the moral authority to complain about the damage caused by this issue.
According to Mr. Yeboah Dame, the NDC’s past efforts to combat galamsey were ineffective and should not serve as a basis for criticism of the current government.
He described the NDC’s track record in addressing the problem as “wretched and miserable”, asserting that they did not manage to apprehend or prosecute any major figures involved in illegal mining during the Mahama administration.
In a press release issued on Wednesday, October 18, he emphasized that during the previous Mahama administration, the NDC was unable to apprehend or bring to justice a single influential figure involved in illegal mining activities in the country.
“I consider it ironic for the NDC, whose record in the fight against Galamsey can be described at best, as wretched and miserable, to mount personal attacks on me for the brave efforts in the fight against Galamsey.”
“The record shows that the NDC woefully failed and/or neglected to arrest and prosecute a single kingpin of Galamsey, including the touted Galamsey queen, Aisha Huang.”
Additionally, in response to the party’s call for his resignation due to the guidance provided by his office to the CID regarding Professor Frimpong-Boateng’s report, Mr. Dame highlighted his success in the arrest and prosecution of Aisha Huang.
He asserted that his exemplary efforts led to the apprehension and ongoing prosecution of Ms. Huang.
“It is noted that all acts committed by Aisha Huang for which she gained notoriety, took place between 2014 and 2016.”
“However, remarkably, it was the current NPP administration which commenced the prosecution of Aisha Huan in 2018.”
Mr. Dame remained unimpressed with the NDC’s actions against the menace, citing their inadequate penalties for galamsey operators during their time in office.
Despite this, he maintained that “no significant convictions for Galamsey offences were recorded in the regime of the NDC when that political party had the opportunity to govern.”
“Their Flagbearer before the 2020 General Elections, openly declared amnesty for all those arrested for engaging in Galamsey activities in communities affected by the heinous environmental hazard.”
The Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice has declared that the allegations made by former Chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM), Prof. Frimpong-Boateng, in his report on illegal mining activities in the country lack substantial evidence to warrant the prosecution of the individuals mentioned.
This comes after a comprehensive review of a docket submitted by the police regarding the accusations outlined in Prof. Frimpong Boateng’s 36-page document titled “Report on the work of IMCIM so far and the way forward.”
Prof. Frimpong-Boateng provided a list of government officials who, according to him, obstructed his anti-illegal mining efforts during his tenure as the Environment Minister.
In the document he submitted, the distinguished surgeon named specific individuals whom he alleges hindered both his personal efforts and the progress of the committee he led in combatting the issue commonly referred to as ‘galamsey.’
“Throughout our struggle with illegalities in the small-scale mining sector, what baffled me was the total disregard of the President’s commitment to protecting the environment.
“I can state without any equivocation that many party officials from the national to the unit committee level had their friends, PAs, agents, relatives, financiers, or relatives engaged in illegal mining. Most of them engaged Chinese working for them.
“I am not referring to party people who had their legitimate concession and were mining sustainably as they were instructed to do.
“There are appointees in the Jubilee House that are doing or supporting illegal mining or interfering with the fight against the menace,” excerpts of the document said.
Professor Frimpong also leveled allegations against a former NPP Member of Parliament from the Ashanti Region, asserting that this individual was involved in selling unlawfully obtained mining concessions for the sum of GH¢200,000 each.
According to him, this “infuriated the party in the constituency so during the 2020 primaries to select a candidate the electorate voted against NPP MP, the then sitting MP, who was more resourced than other candidates.
Nevertheless, some of the individuals named in the report refuted the allegations.
Following these developments, the esteemed heart surgeon and founder of the National Cardiothoracic Center underwent questioning by the police, and a report detailing the findings was subsequently forwarded to the Attorney-General for guidance and recommendations.
Now, the Attorney-General’s advice, dated Tuesday, September 12, and conveyed to the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service on Thursday, September 14, and signed by Chief State Attorney Evelyn Keelson, states that it cannot recommend the prosecution of any of the individuals cited in the report.
Consequently, the Attorney-General has instructed the police to release the individuals mentioned from any legal action, with the exception of those who are still under ongoing investigation.
“The Attorney-General indicates that a careful study of the Report, the various documents and pen drives submitted to the Police did not disclose any evidence in support of the allegations made against the persons cited in the Report, with the exception of Seth Mantey, John Ofori Atta and Ekow Ewusi, in respect of whom the A-G instructs the Police to conclude their investigations and present a report to him.”
“The A-G’s advice, however, notes that even though the Police diary of action shows that John Ofori Atta was invited by the police, there is no indication that he was interviewed or that a statement was taken from him. There is also no statement from Mr Ekow Ewusi on the docket. The A-G instructed the Police to wind up investigations on that issue and furnish him with a report on same.”
Hence claims against the Information Minister, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, Charles Owusu, Charles Nii Teiko Tagoe, Reynolds Kwabi, a Director of Heritage Imperial Company Limited, Joseph Albert Quarm, Captain (rtd) Edmund Kojo Koda have not been proven.
Six Divisional Chiefs and their elders, representing the Dormaa Traditional Council, signed an agreement on Friday, September 29, to safeguard Dormaa land from illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
These chiefs and elders hail from the Ankobia, Nifa, Benkum, Aduana, Kyidom, and Gyaase divisions, covering six traditional areas, including Bomaa, Chiraa, Abesim Dormaa Municipality, Dormaa, and part of Sunyani.
The resolution stated that any chief who allows illegal mining to persist in their communities would face destoolment by the Omanhene, aligning with Act 995, the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act 2019.
During a special meeting organized by the Dormaa Traditional Council, Dormaahene Osagyefo Oseadeyor Agyemang Badu highlighted the necessity of this decision due to the adverse impact of galamsey on Dormaa communities.
He cited examples like Dormaa Akwamu, Subrikrom, Kyeremasu, and Kosani, where galamsey had caused significant damage, including school dropouts, environmental degradation, and destruction of cocoa farms.
The Dormaahene emphasized that chiefs in the area must take responsibility for addressing galamsey activities rather than turning a blind eye to them. He instructed residents to form community taskforces to apprehend illegal miners and hand them over to law enforcement agencies for prosecution.
He expressed a commitment to responsible mining that benefits the people, aiming to prevent Dormaa from suffering the same negative consequences as other mining towns in Ghana.
Before signing the resolution, the Adontenhene of the Dormaa Traditional Council, Barima Okogyetuo Agyemang, suggested considering the factors that drive youth into galamsey and the possibility of chiefs engaging in such activities.
However, this proposal was rejected by the Council, as it could provide an avenue for some chiefs to become involved in illegal mining.
It has been claimed that the drones purchased by the government to monitor galamsey activities in the country have become a white elephant.
According to a tweet by Ghana Mu Nsemsem and seen by GhanaWeb Business, the 200 drones, valued at $3 million, were non-functional.
“In a response to the severe bird flu outbreak in South Africa, Namibia has suspended all imports of live poultry and poultry products from its neighboring country.
The decision comes as a result of the rapid and alarming spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in various regions of South Africa.
It said, “The government of Ghana in 2020 purchased 200 drones to supervise galamsey activities nationwide at a cost of $3million.”
“However, reports indicate that all of these drones are currently non-functional and this is the state of River Ankobra as we captured just yesterday. #OccupyJulorbiHouse,” it added.
Additionally, a video depicted the milky brown transformation of River Ankobra, a consequence of galamsey operations.
In an endeavor to combat illegal mining, often referred to as ‘galamsey,’ the government procured over 200 drones capable of capturing real-time images in districts where this practice is prevalent.
The deployment of drones formed a crucial component of the government’s comprehensive strategy to crack down on illegal miners, whose actions have wrought havoc on the nation’s land and water resources.
Security personnel and other individuals responsible for operating these devices at the district level underwent training at the George Grant University of Mines and Technology as part of this initiative.
Read the tweet below;
The government of Ghana in 2020 purchased 200 drones to supervise galamsey activities nationwide at a cost of $3million.
However, reports indicate that all of these drones are currently non-functional and this is the state of River Ankobra as we captured just yesterday.… pic.twitter.com/S8roHC3Vxw
The Paramount Chief of Lower Axim Traditional Area, Awulae Attibrikusu III, has criticized the Akufo-Addo government’s approach to combating illegal small-scale mining, galamsey.
He asserted that politicians fund nearly 90% of galamsey operations in Ghana, rendering the government’s efforts to combat this issue ineffective.
Speaking at the 2023 Axim Kundum Grand Durbar, Omanhene Attibrikusu III declared that the government is well aware of how to halt illegal mining but is merely engaging in superficial actions.
He further pointed out that the government consistently blames traditional chiefs for the rise in galamsey activities, even though chiefs lack the authority to stop them.
“When it comes to the issue of galamsey, I would always say without fear or favour that the government is full of jokers. I would say this anywhere. Why do I say the government are jokers, as I am seated here, I don’t have any apparatus, I don’t command the police or the soldiers.
“The chamfans that are used for galamsey are imported, who controls the harbour? Is it not the government? So, if the government places an embargo on the import of chamfans, who is going to import them? Who am I, to go and give an order that the import of chamfans should be stopped?
“That is why I’m saying and I would also say it that the government are jokers. They don’t know what they are talking about. It is only the government who can stop galamsey and not chiefs,” he said.
He also emphasized the environmental damage caused by galamsey, particularly to land and water bodies, and expressed disappointment that despite this, the government has not taken decisive action.
He shared that for the first time in his 35 years as chief, he had to purchase fish in Takoradi because there were no fish in the water bodies in his region.
Director of Renewable Energy at Bui Power Authority (BPA), Wisdom Ahiataku-Togobo, has emphasized the organization’s commitment to harnessing the full spectrum of hydropower resources within the country. Notably, he highlighted the untapped potential of rivers such as the River Pra and River Ankobra as prime sources for hydropower generation, contributing to the production of clean energy.
During an appearance on GhanaWeb TV’s BizTech program, Wisdom Ahiataku-Togobo articulated that this strategic initiative, when combined with solar energy efforts, would establish a hybrid power generation system for enhanced energy production.
“What Bui Power Authority is doing is that we are investigating to tap on all the potential hydropower resources in the country; River Pra, River Ankobra and all the other potentials that are in the country, we want to tap those hydro potentials because we are committed to generate electricity from renewables and clean power. So having tapped all these hydro potentials then will add solar to them as a hybrid system,” he told host of the show, Ernestina Serwaa Asante.
Mr. Ahiataku-Togobo hinted that BPA has formed Nuclear Power Ghana Limited in collaboration with the Volta River Authority and the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission to help fulfill the rising demand.
He added that they would switch to nuclear power after 2030, when demand would have grown much faster than their aim.
Mr. Ahiataku-Togobo hinted that BPA has formed Nuclear Power Ghana Limited in collaboration with the Volta River Authority and the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission to help fulfill the rising demand.
He added that they would switch to nuclear power after 2030, when demand would have grown much faster than their aim.
“But as our demand grows further, we still need clean energy. So what we are doing is that we have cooperated with the Volta River Authority and the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission to set up Nuclear power Ghana Limited so that in the future, beyond 2030 when demand is growing far more than we can meet, then we’ll transition into nuclear to support the growing demand. So yes, Bui Power has a role to play to contribute to the energy demand. But I will not say that we will solely address all. We have the VRA which is also a state owned agency, we have the independent power producers. All these contribute to generating power to meet the growing demand,” he said on GhanaWeb TV’s BizTech programme.
Security personnel patrolling on the waters to discourage galamsey
He mentioned that security forces were watching and patrolling the rivers to stop galamsey activities upstream and spoke briefly about the activities of illegal mining in the Banda district.
He clarified that the military and naval personnel had been sent out to deter individuals from mining in these waters because it could have an adverse effect on BPA’s hydroelectric plant.
The Chiefs and residents of Akyem Hemang, a farming community in the Fanteakwa South District of the Eastern Region, have issued a 10-day ultimatum to the Ghana Police Service, Eastern Regional Coordinating Council, and the local assembly.
They demand that these authorities take action to either expel or apprehend illegal miners who are causing water pollution and devastating farmlands in the area.
The Chiefs have expressed that if the mentioned agencies do not intervene and put a stop to the miners’ activities within the stipulated 10-day period, the community will resort to taking matters into their own hands to safeguard and preserve their water bodies and agricultural lands.
Speaking to the media, the Chief of Akyem Hemang, Osabarima Mmirrikkissi Okasum Apori Atta, conveyed that he can no longer contain the anger of his people.
“We know you have done your best, but it is not good enough, if you can’t do it, give us about 10 policemen to accompany us. Who has authorised them to come and mine our waterbodies in the first place? We cannot build Ghana in this way…I cannot hold back the anger of my people again.
“Within 10 days, if we don’t hear anything we will apply officially, to follow due process to go on demonstration and we will need police guard to drive them away. If there are no laws in this land, let us know so we take the laws into our own hands.”
Several irate community members, in conversations with Citi News, pointed fingers at the government, holding it responsible for the shortcomings in combating illegal mining in the nation.
In the meantime, Ernest Ofosu, the District Chief Executive for Fanteakwa South, who also serves as the Chairman of the District Security Council (DISEC), has provided assurance that an urgent DISEC meeting will be convened to address the grievances expressed by the community.
It appears the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has not relented in his unwavering determination to root out corruption among particular chiefs in his region.
The Asantehene recently sanctioned a number of chiefs over various offenses including fraud and involvement in galamsey, by destooling them.
Otumfuo has taken the sanctions further by referring to a chief who has been cited for fraud to the police.
The predicament of Nana Kwaku Duah III, the deposed Chief of Abuontem, seems to be worsening, as he is the chief in focus who has been referred to the police for potential prosecution due to his engagement in multiple land sales.
Following extensive discussions on the issue, in which Nana Kwaku Duah III was given ample time to present his perspective and request leniency, he was ultimately pronounced guilty. As a result, he was swiftly dethroned and deprived of all privileges as per Asante tradition.
Having completed the customary procedures regarding the Chief’s predicament, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II instructed that he be handed over to the police. This action was taken to enable his prosecution for his involvement in the various land sales.
The Asantehene appears to have initiated a campaign to address chiefs within his realm who are involved in actions that are either culturally inappropriate or against the law.
Several chiefs have suffered consequences for one act or another recently, especially with regard to land sales.
A senior presidential advisor, Yaw Osafo Maafo, has placed partial responsibility on traditional leaders for the escalating pollution of river bodies in the country due to illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as “galamsey.”
Osafo Maafo expressed his concern that some chiefs in regions affected by illegal mining offer their land to miners, leading to severe water pollution that goes beyond the possibility of purification.
Speaking at the 23rd General Meeting of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana in Kwahu Abetifi, Eastern Region, Osafo Maafo stated, “Look at what galamsey is doing to the land, and should we allow monies that a few people want to make to destroy the very base of water that we need to drink? There are areas where you cannot even purify the water and where you can, we are spending more than three times what we used to spend in purification, and all this is happening in the direct face of our chiefs that gave the land for the galamsey.”
He also voiced his concern about the growing problem of corruption in Ghana, despite the country’s high number of Christians.
“If 72 percent of us are Christians and corruption begins to grow from bad to worse, then there is something wrong with even the message that we give to this 72 percent of the population. We need to do some retrospection and as a country, together with the government, take certain actions to redeem the country from corruption and can’t just keep talking about corruption without doing anything about it.”
Minister of Roads and highways,Kwasi Amoako Atta, arrested two illegal miners and forced them to wash mud on tarred Akrofufu to Twapease roads in Atiwa West District.
The illegal miners brought an excavator with a low-bed truck vehicle from their mining site close to the roadside, spreading mud on the tarred road and causing congestion.
The Minister who is also a Member of Parliament for the area in the company of some constituency executives of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) bumped into the gridlock while returning from a funeral at Twapease over the weekend.
When the Minister saw the destruction to the road shoulders and the mess the illegal miners had made on the road, he furiously ordered his police guard to arrest the illegal miners; two of them were caught, but the others managed to flee.
The illegal miners were forced to wash mud on about one kilometer of the road.
“My party executives and I were from a funeral, and we came to meet this low bird trailer with Galamsey excavator. Look at this distance, more than a kilometer of road have been destroyed -so muddy.
“The entire stretch of the tarred road has been muddied so no car could cross. All the vehicles have parked at both. They have destroyed the shoulders if the road so I stopped and ordered my bodyguard to arrest them”.
He continued that the illegal miners arrested have been handed over to the police.
”Their galamsey activities are destroying the road constructed with huge amount of the taxpayer’s monies. Look at the destruction”.
I have handed them over to the police for the law to take its cause. The police in their own wisdom will carry their own investigation”.
Hon. Amoako Atta declared what he calls “negative tolerance” to illegal mining in the area warning that henceforth, illegal miners will be clamped down in the district.
“I am the member of Parliament for this constituency, and I am going to work with my District Chief Executive who is head if DISEC to support the position of Government. The President of the Republic Nana Addo Dankwah Akufo Addo has put his presidency on the line to fight Galamsey to protect the environment for posterity. We have to protect our water bodies we to protect our land.”
An illegal miner has made a disturbing admission, confessing to the gruesome act of sacrificing newborn babies on galamsey sites in exchange for gold.
A deeply disturbing video is circulating on social media, where the man, who remains anonymous, expresses remorse for his heinous actions and divulges chilling details about this horrifying practice.
He explained in Twi, a local dialect, that some illegal miners connive with some nurses in hospitals to smuggle newborn babies, which they buy and take to galamsey sites.
On the site, the baby’s head is cracked open into the galamsey pit for rituals, which he claims the blood generates more gold for the miners to collect and sell for money.
“When we buy the fresh babies from the nurses, they are taken to the underground, killed, by cracking them hard on the walls of the pit and the blood is used for rituals. The death of the human being is necessary to make the land act on their demands for more gold,” he said in an interview on Angel FM.
He added that when this happens, no one else is able to mine more gold than those who were involved in the sacrifice.
Implying that a miner can mine more gold in an area but another person will find it difficult to access just a piece of gold.
The narrator further revealed that some miners also kill their fellow miners for rituals in the course of their work.
Attributing the cause of death to the notion that “Asaase akasa”, to wit, “the earth has spoken”.
“Your own fellow miner can pick a rod while you are in the pit. He will deliberately use the rod to release huge already loose stones on you and say it is a natural act by the earth,” he expressed.
The video has sparked outrage and condemnation from social media users, who have called for justice and protection for innocent lives.
Galamsey is a term used to describe illegal mining activities in Ghana, which have caused serious environmental damage and health risks.
The government has launched several campaigns and operations to clamp down on galamsey, but the practice persists due to various factors.
Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has removed Nana Saforo Koto from his position as the Chief of Bekwai-Abodom.
The removal from office occurred due to Nana Saforo Koto’s failure to provide a defense against approximately 20 accusations raised by concerned residents in his locality.
The majority of the accusations directed at him primarily involve the purported unregulated selling of land to unauthorized miners. This practice has been contributing to the harmful activities of illegal small-scale mining, commonly known as ‘galamsey,’ which has caused significant damage to local water sources.
Moreover, he stands accused of neglecting his community duties for an extended period of 7 years, resulting in the abandonment of critical traditional rites and rituals within the stool house, along with other customary activities.
Subordinates operating under his authority have taken issue with Nana Saforo Koto’s blatant disregard for essential traditional practices associated with his position.
During the proceedings at a sitting of the Asanteman Traditional Council, Otumfuo Kyeame Kwaku Owusu, a key representative of the Asantehene, revealed that Nana Saforo Koto, when given the chance to address the allegations at the committee level, failed to provide satisfactory responses.
After attentively considering the perspectives of various divisional chiefs and assessing the available evidence, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II deemed Nana Saforo Koto culpable on all counts. Consequently, the decision was reached to strip him of his title.
Ahead of the 25th Anniversary celebration of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, it has been indicated that additional chiefs involved in illicit mining activities could face destoolment if found guilty. This decisive measure aims to curtail the unfortunate pollution of river bodies resulting from unlawful mining practices.
A shocking revelation has been made by an illegal miner, who has confessed to sacrificing newborn babies on galamsey sites for gold.
In a horrifying video circulating on social media, the man, whose identity is concealed, is heard expressing regret for the atrocious act while he shares details of the deadly practice.
He explained in Twi, a local dialect, that some illegal miners connive with some nurses in hospitals to smuggle newborn babies, which they buy and take to galamsey sites.
On the site, the baby’s head is cracked open into the galamsey pit for rituals, which he claims the blood generates more gold for the miners to collect and sell for money.
“When we buy the fresh babies from the nurses, they are taken to the underground, killed, by cracking them hard on the walls of the pit and the blood is used for rituals. The death of the human being is necessary to make the land act on their demands for more gold,” he said in an interview on Angel FM.
He added that when this happens, no one else is able to mine more gold than those who were involved in the sacrifice.
Implying that a miner can mine more gold in an area but another person will find it difficult to access just a piece of gold.
The narrator further revealed that some miners also kill their fellow miners for rituals in the course of their work.
Attributing the cause of death to the notion that “Asaase akasa”, to wit, “the earth has spoken”.
“Your own fellow miner can pick a rod while you are in the pit. He will deliberately use the rod to release huge already loose stones on you and say it is a natural act by the earth,” he expressed.
The video has sparked outrage and condemnation from social media users, who have called for justice and protection for innocent lives.
Galamsey is a term used to describe illegal mining activities in Ghana, which have caused serious environmental damage and health risks.
The government has launched several campaigns and operations to clamp down on galamsey, but the practice persists due to various factors.
An illegal miner has exposed gruesome human sacrifices carried out in the pit on galamsey sites that helps the miners to extract more gold for cash.
A video cited on social media has the young man sharing details of the exposé in a camouflaged identity.
He confessed that a considerable number of illegal miners are habitual killers who make use of human blood for rituals on the site.
For them, the land is able to produce more gold to their satisfaction when they feed it with human blood.
Hence they conspire with nurses for fresh babies to kill or kill co-miners on the site and use their blood for rituals.
“When we buy the fresh babies from the nurses, they are taken to the underground, killed, by cracking them hard on the walls of the pit and the blood is used for rituals. The death of the human being is necessary to make the land act on their demands for more gold.”
“Your own fellow miner can pick a rod while you are in the pit. He will deliberately use the rod to release huge already loose stones on you and say it is a natural act by the earth,” he said in an interview on Angel FM.
Additionally, the anonymous confessor revealed that there several humans who have been killed on the site and their family members will never make traces oftheir whereabout.
They also conspired against and killed miners who were unable to speak the same language with them.
“We observe you closely and say, oh you don’t even the Ashsante language like you do. You may be a muslim. We just conspire against you and kill you into the pit. Sharp! you are gone!” He expressed in a local parlance.
Social media users have expressed indignation and criticism over the video and demanded justice and the defense of unborn children.
The term “galamsey” refers to unlawful mining operations in Ghana that have seriously harmed the environment and posed health dangers.
Government has carried out numerous campaigns and operations to outlaw galamsey, although the practice still exists for a number of reasons.
Residents from Old Yakaase in the Aowin municipality of the Western North Region, have confiscated unauthorized mining machinery discovered near River Disou in the vicinity.
Illicit mining operations have devastated nearly all water resources within the region, except for the River Disou within the municipality.
Consequently, the leaders and inhabitants of Dabi Asem, Fawokabra, and Old Yakaase have chosen to collectively combat any unlawful mining activities in the vicinity of the river.
The chief of Old Yakaase, Nana Ndoli Kwaku I, formed a voluntary task force to monitor activities on the river bodies, particularly River Disou because it is the only source of water for domestic, irrigation, and other purposes in the area.
As part of their duties, the task force found and confiscated illegal mining equipment mounted on the river Disou in the deep of the forest to the palace.
Some of the residents registered their displeasure with the miners and how their activities are affecting them.
“We have nowhere to get money to purchase water. All our cocoa trees are ruined so we will protect our river. Whoever does not know and mounts illegal mining equipment, we will not bring it home at all but burn them,” one of the indigenes said.
However, other residents of Old Yakaase threatened to fight anyone who engages in illegal mining on the only source of water in their community.
“Whoever decides to mount illegal mining equipment will not have it easy with us.”
The chief of Old Yakaase, Nana Ndoli Kwaku I, expressed worry about the state of the rivers in the area that have been destroyed by the miners.
He explained that the owners of the seized mining equipment should come to the palace to identify their items.
“They are mining on the land and I also heard that they have polluted part of our water leaving only the one that serves as our source of drinking water.
“So I want everybody to understand that if you have mining equipment mounted on the river Disou, I have ordered the youth to go for them and it’s now with me.
“If you are able to explain the reason why we should give it back to you, then we hand it over to you.”
The Nuclear Power Institute (NPI) has cautioned that Ghana’s capacity to fully utilize its untapped hydropower potential could be compromised due to the detrimental impacts of illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey.
NPI reports indicate that approximately 64% of Ghana’s hydropower potential has already been exploited.
Speaking at a press conference focused on the status of Ghana’s Nuclear Power Programme, Dr. Archibald Buah-Kwofie, Deputy Director of NPI, emphasized the urgency of diversifying the nation’s energy portfolio.
He commented, “While we have tapped into around 64% of our hydro potentials, we are also confronted with the galamsey issue.
A significant number of our water bodies have been adversely affected, posing additional challenges in harnessing the remaining 36%.”
In a parallel development, Dr. Stephen Yamoah, the Executive Director of Nuclear Power Ghana, expressed optimism about securing a suitable vendor for the construction of Ghana’s inaugural nuclear power plant by the year’s end.
“We are in the process of evaluating the submissions, after which it will undergo the state’s procedural steps. We will collaborate with the Ministry, and subsequently, it will be presented to the cabinet for their deliberation,” Dr. Yamoah affirmed.
Law enforcement authorities have arrested an individual who tried to use his own biological brother for ritual purposes in Mumuni, within the Amenfi East district of the Western region.
Nana Fynn, who reported on the incident, mentioned that the accused, involved in illegal mining (galamsey), aimed to increase his profits through unlawful mining operations.
Allegedly, he sought guidance from a divination source, and according to the information he received, in order to fulfill his wish, he needed to carry out a human sacrifice.
Following that, he allegedly attempted to use his senior brother for the sacrifice.
But luck was against him, and he was apprehended by the police.
Nana Fynn reported that the story has shocked residents in the area.
Details of the story
The suspect, whose name was only revealed as Combat, is believed to have asked another friend, Ben, to introduce him to a spiritualist who could do black magic for him.
He is claimed to have repeatedly requested Ben’s assistance since he had located a land where he was engaged in galamsey and needed to extract additional gold.
Later, Combat told Ben that he was willing to sacrifice a human person if it meant that his wish would be accomplished.
Ben, on the other hand, grew concerned after learning that his friend was willing to sacrifice a human being.
Ben then confided in someone else about the situation.
Ben and the other person conspired and later informed Combat that they had located a spiritualist eager to help him for GHC7,000.
Combat negotiated the price and was then requested to buy some items and bring the person he was willing to sacrifice with him.
Ben and his other acquaintance, who was supposed to be a spiritualist, had contacted the police about the situation, unbeknownst to Combat.
Combat then requested his senior brother to accompany him somewhere, and while they were on their way, his brother, whom he (Combat) meant to use for the sacrifice, inquired as to what he planned to do with the materials he had purchased.
He informed his brother that his wife had requested that he acquire them.
When the man posing as the spiritualist arrived, he asked Combat about his objective, and Combat said that he was going to offer his brother as a human sacrifice so that his galamsey business could prosper.
At this point, his brother became shocked and wondered why his biological brother would deceive him into escorting him somewhere only to appear there and discover he was to be used for a human sacrifice.
The victim attempted to flee, but police officers in plain clothes who were present at the time stopped him and announced themselves as officials of the law.
The culprit was apprehended alongside Ben and his friend, who told the police about the situation to keep Combat from suspecting he was being played.
District Chief Executive (DCE) of Bosome Freho District Assembly in the Ashanti Region, Yaw Danso, has been removed from his position.
Reports indicate he was dismissed on July 31, 2023, over his alleged involvement in galamsey.
Yaw Danso was suspended in October 2022 after being accused of involvement in illegal small-scale mining activities, commonly known as galamsey. The investigation into these allegations was initiated in response to an audio recording that purportedly linked him to galamsey activities.
Following Yaw Danso’s suspension, the Assembly members of Bosome Freho urged the presidency to carry out additional investigations into the allegations. In response, President Akufo-Addo organized a special meeting with Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) and invited Yaw Danso to present his defense during the meeting.
Subsequently, after conducting the investigations, it was determined that the allegations against Yaw Danso were substantiated, leading to the decision to dismiss him from his role as the District Chief Executive.
According to the report, the decision to remove him was communicated by the Minister of Local Government, Rural Development, and Decentralisation, Dan Botwe, to the Ashanti Regional Minister.
The dismissal letter stated, “His Excellency the President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has relieved the chief executive of the Bosome Freho District Assembly, Mr. Yaw Danso, of his position with immediate effect.” The letter emphasized that the decision was prompted by the serious allegations of illegal mining against Yaw Danso.
In line with constitutional and legislative provisions, President Akufo-Addo has nominated Kofi Adu Amoateng as the new Chief Executive of the Bosome Freho District Assembly. The nomination is subject to confirmation by the regional Electoral Commission, as required by the relevant procedures.
The government of Ghana has allocated separate mining sites to three communities in the Amansie West District, Ashanti Region.
The beneficiary communities are Banko, Yawkrom-Asamang, and Mosease-Abransie.
These mining concessions are expected to create a total of 9,500 direct and indirect jobs, contributing to the over one million jobs already created in the small-scale mining industry for Ghanaians.
The government’s Community Mining Scheme (CMS) has now reached 21 communities, further expanding economic opportunities in the mining sector.
Last Wednesday, a commissioning ceremony was held in each town, led by George Mireku Duker, the Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources in charge of mining, to officially hand over the mining sites.
The government’s primary objective is to promote responsible mining practices that do not harm the environment or the water bodies that serve as a vital source of drinking water for the local communities. To support sustainable and responsible mining, the government is providing districts involved in community mining with equipment and technical assistance.
During the ceremony, Mr. Mireku Duker also expressed concern about illegal mining activities along the Black Volta and assured that measures were being taken to address the issue and protect the river.
Present at the event were the District Chief Executive, Nii Larteh Ollenu, the Member of Parliament for Manso Nkwanta, George Obeng Takyi, chiefs, natives of the various communities, and members of the Ghana National Association of Small Scale Mining (GNASSM).
The District Chief Executive, Mr. Ollenu, mentioned that in anticipation of the scheme, the assembly had already facilitated the formation and registration of 92 mining groups in the various communities, consisting of a total of 1,104 people. These groups had the opportunity to participate in training for Sustainable Small-Scale Mining at the University of Mines and Technology in Tarkwa, Western Region.
Mr. Obeng Takyi, the Member of Parliament, pledged to play an effective role in ensuring strict adherence to mining protocols, as this would encourage the government to open more concessions and create more job opportunities for the people.
The local chiefs expressed their appreciation to the government for creating employment opportunities for their communities. However, they highlighted the urgent need to address the poor road network, which is adversely affecting economic activities in the area.
The Savannah Region Minister, Saeed Muhazu Jibril, has stated that the joint operation involving the military, the Regional Security Council and the Minerals Commission to eliminate illegal miners on the Black Volta is still in progress.
This update comes after receiving a recent report from the Six Infantry Battalion of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), the Savannah Regional Security Council, and the Minerals Commission on Wednesday, July 26.
Recalling the media briefing held on Friday, July 21, by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor, he reiterated the government’s strong commitment to combat the surge in illegal mining activities (galamsey) along the Black Volta River.
The efforts have already yielded positive results, with areas like Jama, Jugboi, and Bamboi in the Savannah Region successfully cleared of illegal miners.
The Minister further assured the public that the Ministerial Coordinating Committee on illegal mining remains resolute in stopping illegal mining activities along major rivers and water bodies. These areas have been designated as ‘Red Zones’ by the Government in its efforts to curb illegal mining.
Savannah Regional Minister, Hon. Saeed Muhazu Jibril, has confirmed that the joint operation involving the Military, the Regional Security Council, and the Minerals Commission to eliminate illegal miners on the Black Volta is still ongoing.
The update came after he received a report from the Six Infantry Battalion of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), the Savannah Regional Security Council, and the Minerals Commission on Wednesday, July 26, 2023.
The Government’s determination to crack down on illegal mining activities (galamsey) on the River was previously highlighted by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor, during a media briefing on Friday, July 21st, 2023.
According to reports, progress has been made, and areas such as Jama, Jugboi, and Bamboi in the Savannah Region have been successfully cleared of illegal miners.
The Minister reaffirmed the commitment of the Ministerial Coordinating Committee on illegal mining to halt such activities along major rivers and water bodies, which have been designated as ‘Red Zones’ by the Government.
The efforts aim to curb the detrimental impact of illegal mining on the environment and natural resources in the region.
Accra High Court to deliver judgment in the case of the alleged galamsey kingpin, Aisha Huang on October 12, 2023.
Justice Lydia Osei-Marfo presides, ordering the State to file their written address by September 20, 2023, and the defense team by October 11, 2023.
Prosecutors completed cross-examination of Aisha Huang, who faces charges of illegal mining, facilitating illegal mining, and unlawful re-entry into Ghana after deportation.
Aisha denies all charges and remains in custody.
During cross-examination, Aisha denies engaging anyone for illegal mining and refutes owning concealed passports.
“It is not true that I have engaged anybody to engage in illegal mining on my behalf. I swear, I have not engaged four Chinese nationals to work for me.
“It is not true that I took some Chinese Nationals to Bepotenten in Amansie Central, Ashanti Region, to mine for me. I have never engaged in mining activities.”
Prosecution inquires about alleged marriages; Aisha confirms marrying Anthony Fabian in China in 2009, the union lasted five years.
She denies marrying Daniel Oduro Acheampong.
“I did not contract any marriage with Oduro at Oda in July 2018,” she told the court.
Court adjourns the case to August 16, 2023, for mention, complying with legal requirements for adjournments.
Aisha Huang, an alleged illegal miner, claims that she was not informed about the prohibition of re-entry into Ghana after her repatriation.
During a hearing at the Accra High Court, Aisha Huang stated that she could not provide the exact date of her re-entry into Ghana but asserted that it occurred in July 2022.
In opposition to the prosecution led by Yvonne Atakora Obuobisa, the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Aisha Huang denied the accusation that, despite her illegal stay in Ghana, she obtained a non-citizen Ghana Card.
“If I knew I was illegally in Ghana, I could not have entered Ghana to apply for a non-citizen Ghana Card,” the accused person said.
During the trial, when the prosecution accused Aisha of being in Ghana to continue her illegal activities, she broke down in tears. However, the trial Judge, Justice Lydia Osei Marfo, issued a warning, saying, “Stop the interjection with tears. It does not affect me. I have developed a thick skin over such gestures.”
During further cross-examination, Aisha revealed that when she re-entered Ghana, she applied for both a National Identification Card and a COVID-19 Vaccination Card. She stated that someone accompanied her to a facility where she received her COVID-19 vaccination, but she could not recall the exact date when the prosecution suggested it was April 24, 2022.
After returning to Ghana, Aisha resided in Ahowdwo, Kumasi, in the Ashanti Region. She disagreed with the prosecution’s claim that she moved to Tamale in the Northern Region intentionally to obtain a COVID-19 vaccination card while still living in Kumasi. Instead, she explained that she traveled to Tamale in search of someone who owed her money and took the opportunity to get her COVID-19 Vaccination Card.
Aisha refuted the prosecution’s allegation that she applied for a new Ghana Card with the intention of staying in Ghana.
Her lawyer, Miracle Atachi, objected to the tendering of the National Identification Authority (NIA) application through Aisha, arguing that it should be presented by NIA officials instead. However, the trial judge ruled that Aisha had admitted to signing the application form and that her name was on it. Therefore, the form was tendered through Aisha and admitted as evidence.
Aisha informed the court that she had notified NIA officials about a name change and was instructed to go to court to formalize it. However, she expressed uncertainty about the procedure for conducting a name change in court.
The hearing is set to continue on Tuesday, July 25, 2023.
Aisha is currently facing charges related to illegal mining operations without a license, facilitating illegal mining, and re-entering Ghana despite being prohibited. She has denied these charges and is currently in lawful custody awaiting further proceedings.
Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has stated its determination to continue shutting down plants in regions affected by illegal mining if the turbidity levels of raw water exceed a critical threshold.
Managing Director of the utility company, Clifford Braimah, highlighted the significant effects of illegal mining on their operations and called for collaborative efforts to address this problem.
In a Public Accounts Committee hearing, he defended the company’s proposed 334% tariff increase, explaining that it aims to motivate Ghanaians to assume responsibility by deterring illegal mining activities within their communities.
“If I had my way, Ghanaians will go and chase away all the galamsayers out of their areas because once the turbidity goes up, we shut the plant. And if you have no alternative access to water, you will take the situation seriously because we stay with the people who pollute the water. And if we [GWCL] shut down, you will not even know where to go to get the water.”
“If you pollute the water and the cost of treatment goes up, why don’t you pay for it because you are making money in one breath polluting the water?”
In a recent statement, the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has declared its unwavering determination to shut down its plants in regions affected by illegal mining activities (galamsey), particularly when the turbidity levels of raw water exceed critical thresholds.The
Managing Director of GWCL, Clifford Braimah, raised serious concerns about the significant adverse effects of illegal mining on the company’s operations. During a Public Accounts Committee hearing, he appealed for united efforts to combat this pressing issue.
The utility company defended its proposed 334% tariff increase, emphasizing that the primary goal is to encourage Ghanaians to take responsibility for deterring illegal mining within their communities.
Mr. Braimah stated, “If I had my way, Ghanaians will go and chase away all the galamsayers out of their areas because once the turbidity goes up, we shut the plant. And if you have no alternative access to water, you will take the situation seriously because we stay with the people who pollute the water. And if we [GWCL] shut down, you will not even know where to go to get the water.”
He further added, “If you pollute the water and the cost of treatment goes up, why don’t you pay for it because you are making money in one breath polluting the water?”
GWCL’s firm stance on combating illegal mining underscores the gravity of the situation and the necessity for collaborative actions to protect the country’s water resources.
A Chinese national, known as Shi Yumeing or Smith, has been remanded by an Accra High Court for allegedly harboring En Huang, the alleged galamsey kingpin, after her repatriation in December 2018.
Shi is accused of renting an accommodation for En Huang, also known as Aisha Huang, in Kumasi when she illegally re-entered Ghana.
Charged with mining without a license and harboring a criminal, Shi pleaded not guilty before Justice Mrs. Lydia Osei Marfo. His next court appearance is scheduled for August 14, 2023.
The prosecution, led by State Attorney Watkins Adamah, stated that Shi was believed to be a former boyfriend of En Huang, who was repatriated from Ghana in 2018 due to her involvement in illegal mining activities. After her repatriation, En Huang was prohibited from entering Ghana without approval from the Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service.
Investigations revealed that Shi took control of En Huang’s businesses in Kumasi and maintained regular communication with her after her repatriation. Moreover, during the period between October 2021 and January 2022, Shi engaged in mining operations at Nimbreso in the Ashanti Region without a permit. He reportedly paid GHC100,000 for the parcel of land used for mining but neglected to reclaim the concession after his illegal activities.
On September 2, 2022, En Huang and three other Chinese nationals, Huang Lei, Huang Hai Hua, and Jiang Li Hua, were arrested at a house in Ahodwo, Kumasi. Aisha had entered Ghana through an unauthorized route, disregarding the terms of her repatriation and the approval of the Comptroller-General.
The house in which En Huang was arrested was rented by Shi, who allegedly knowingly allowed her to stay there in defiance of the terms of her repatriation and to evade detection and arrest.
The investigation led to the arrest of Aisha, Huang Lei, Huang Hai Hua, Jiang Li Hua, Shi Mei Zhi, and Li Wei Guo. Aisha and her accomplices were arraigned, and the accomplices have been convicted for mining and immigration-related offenses.
“The accused person (Shi) was wanted in connection with other cases, but he remained in hiding until his arrest in June 2023.
“The accused person, through investigations, was found to be instrumental in the acquisition of forged or irregularly obtained immigration permits for the other five nationals,” the prosecution said.
It said Shi’s immigration status was currently being investigated.
Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor says government has taken drastic, decisive and pre-emptive steps to protect the Black Volta from the destructive activities of illegal miners.
According to the Minister, following recent media reports of illegal mining activities on the Black Volta, the government through the collaborative efforts of the Minerals Commission, the Savannah Regional Coordinating Council and the Ghana Armed Forces embarked on an intelligence-gathering operation to ascertain the situation on the ground.
Mr Jinapor who was speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the presentation of the intelligence report on Friday, 21 July 2023, stated that a number of operations have already taken place by the Military to stop the illegal miners and protect the river body from further destruction.
Providing details of the said operations, the Minister disclosed that 20 changfans which were operating on the Black Volta have been confiscated and destroyed.
He stated that resources and personnel will be committed to ensuring the Black Volta returns to its naturally healthy state sooner than later.
Describing the emergence of illegal mining activities as ‘scandalous and unfortunate’, Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor vowed that Government through the Ministry and allied institutions will activate the necessary and legal measures to protect the Black Volta and other waterbodies from illegal mining activities.
“The need for us to protect the Black Volta is absolutely important and I’m happy to report that following the reports the Ministry received, we are working closely with the Minerals Commission, the Savannah Regional Coordinating Council and the 6th Battalion of Infantry, 6Bn) in collaboration with the Military command of the Savannah Region were able to carry out an intelligence-gathering operation to ascertain the true facts on the ground”, he indicated.
“As I speak to you now, series of operations have been undertaken and the reports I’ve received is that 20 changfans have been destroyed and there is a well-thought-through plan to eradicate illegal mining on the river and other parts of the country”, he stressed.
The Lands Minister disclosed that government will not relent in its effort to eradicate illegal mining activities and ensure that the exploitation of the country’s natural resources are done in accordance with the laws of the country and international standards.
He explained that the government illegal mining battled is modelled on two pillars which are enforcement and reformation.
Mr Jinapor vowed that the government will continue to pursue the two pillars and will not renege in its effort to create a sustainable mining sector through responsible and environment-friendly mining practises.
Chinese national, Aisha Huang, widely known as the “Galamsey Queen,” wept in court during cross-examination by the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Yvonne Atakora Obuobisa, at an Accra High Court on Tuesday, July 19, 2023.
The trial of Aisha Huang, a Chinese national, has been a focal point in Ghana’s fight against illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey.” Her arrest and subsequent court proceedings had drawn intense media attention, sparking discussions about the impact of illegal mining on the environment and the country’s natural resources.
According to a DailyGuide report, the DPP probed the accused about a statement she had given to immigration authorities following the arrest of four Chinese nationals—Qi Jin, Gao Jin Cheng, Habin Gao, and Zhang Zhipeng—at Bepotenten in the Ashanti Region.
Aisha Huang claimed that these individuals were in Ghana to repair her broken excavators, but the prosecution pointed to similar statements where she had allegedly admitted inviting them to work for her.
Though Aisha acknowledged her signature on those statements, she vehemently denied their content and broke down in tears while stating that she had not made such statements during the investigation.
In response to Aisha’s emotional display, Justice Lydia Osei Marfo intervened and expressed her disapproval of witnesses crying in court.
Aisha quickly composed herself upon the judge’s admonishment.
Insisting that she had no knowledge of the statement’s content, Aisha asserted that she had only signed them under duress, fearing she wouldn’t be allowed to leave the police station if she refused.
However, the DPP refuted this claim, pointing out that the individuals mentioned in the statement were not known to the immigration officers at the time of Aisha’s statement in August 2016, implying that she must have provided their names herself.
The DPP further countered Aisha’s claim that she was not a suspect or under any restraint during the investigation, asserting that she had voluntarily given the statement as a free person.
The prosecution also presented evidence that Aisha’s company; Golden Asia Company Limited, possessed six excavators at an illegal mining site.
Although this was confirmed by a prosecution witness, Aisha vehemently denied it and questioned the credibility of the testimony.
During the cross-examination, Aisha also revealed that she operated under two identities; En Huang and Huang Ruixia, with two different dates of birth—November 7, 1987, and July 7, 1975. She justified this by explaining that her parents had given her both names and dates of birth, which she claimed was a common practice in China.
Additionally, she admitted to holding three different passports, each with different names, dates of birth, and places of birth. Aisha explained that one passport was canceled upon her repatriation from Ghana in 2018. When challenged about her dual identities, Aisha maintained that it was a cultural norm in China and suggested that the DPP verify this with the Chinese Embassy.
As the cross-examination proceeded, the DPP questioned the validity of Aisha’s claims and suggested that her possession of two passports might be related to her involvement in illegal activities.
The case was adjourned until July 24 for further cross-examination and the presentation of additional evidence.
En Huang, also known as Aisha Huang, the alleged kingpin of illegal mining, couldn’t hold back her tears on Tuesday during questioning by the Director of Public Prosecution, Yvonne Atakora Obuobisa, regarding her illicit mining activities in Ghana.
During the questioning, Obuobisa highlighted that in Aisha’s statement on August 30, 2016, she admitted to employing the services of four Chinese individuals in Gyaaman, located in the Ashanti Region, to carry out repairs on her six excavators.
“I have not said anything like that. I was asked to sign the various statements so I will be allowed to leave the Police Station. Because I wanted to leave the Police Station, I signed them. In fact, I can swear to that,” Aisah said.
During cross-examination, Aisha became emotional and tearfully expressed her confusion and frustration over the alleged lies being spread about her.
She adamantly denied before the High Court that she had brought the four Chinese nationals from China and employed them in a reclamation exercise.
Aisha also disagreed with the state that in her June 20, 2016, statement, Golden Asian, her company had six excavators whose spare parts were not common and anything they broke down she needed to bring engineers from China to carry out repair works on them.
She also denied that six excavators were located at Bepotenten, adding. “All these are lies; no excavator belongs to me. I do not know what you are talking about.”
The alleged kingpin of illegal mining, Aisha Huang, vehemently denied mentioning Thomas Walenkaki as her partner in her August 30, 2016, statement to the Police. She refuted the claim made by prosecution witness Michael Abotsi that Walenkaki served as her foreman.
The Director of Public Prosecution argued that Aisha had multiple identities. However, Aisha clarified that she possessed two passports, with one of them having been canceled.
Aisha Huang is currently in lawful custody, facing charges of engaging in mining operations without a license, facilitating the involvement of others in illegal mining, and re-entering a prohibited area. She pleaded not guilty to the charges in front of Justice Lydia Osei Marfo.
The court proceedings have been adjourned to July 24, 2023.
En Huang, also known as Aisha Huang, an accused illegal miner, has stated before an Accra High Court that she has never visited Bepotenten in the Ashanti Region to engage in any illegal mining activities.
Furthermore, she has refuted claims of meeting with farm owners to obtain lands for illegal mining operations, asserting that she is not proficient in the Twi language.
“I have never had any conversation in Twi language anywhere,” Aisha is quoted to have said while answering questions under cross-examination by Mrs Yvonne Atakorah Obuobisa, Director of Public Prosecution.
Aisha Huang acknowledged being the owner of Aisha Supermarket, located in Ahodwo, Kumasi. She disclosed that her company’s official name was Golden Asia Company Limited, which had objectives encompassing the import and export of general goods as well as mining services. However, she clarified that although mining was listed as part of the company’s objectives, she did not possess a license to engage in mining activities.
En Huang admitted to being a director of the company rather than the secretary. She further revealed that she operated the supermarket from 2013 to 2018 and held the necessary permits to run that business.
Currently, En Huang is on trial for charges including undertaking mining operations without a license, facilitating the involvement of individuals in illegal mining, and re-entering Ghana despite being prohibited.
She has pleaded not guilty, and Justice Lydia Osei Marfo has remanded her into lawful custody. The hearing has been adjourned.
In a significant call to action, the National House of Chiefs has urged the government of Ghana to implement resolute measures to combat the issue of illegal mining in the country.
The activities of illegal miners, according to House President Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, pose a threat to the country, and the government must take decisive action to address the issue.
Speaking at the General Meeting of the National House Chiefs on Thursday, 13 July 2023, in Kumasi, he said the chiefs are prepared to support the government towards this fight.
“The government must be decisive in dealing with galamsey, and we as chiefs must support the government in this fight. There is always a surge in galamsey activities during election years. During election years, both the government in power and the opposition party look unconcerned. During election years, our government; both current and past, do not demonstrate enough political will to deal decisively with the menace”.
The traditional ruler lamented that there is always a surge of galamsey in election years.
Ogyeahoho, who doubles as the Paramount Chief of the Sefwi Anhwiaso traditional area, added that the fight against galamsey must be inclusive and intensified.
According to him, it is the sacred duty of chiefs to preserve the land because it is our heritage, and failing to do so constitutes a breach of duty.
He asserted that the chiefs’ failure to fulfil this sacred duty would not be forgiven by future generations.
A female Chinese citizen, detained in 2022 alongside a Chinese male and a Ghanaian for engaging in illegal mining, has made a suicide attempt while in prison due to her declining health condition.
According to a Daily Guide Newspaper Report dated July 14, 2023, she is currently under close monitoring.
The three who were arrested in 2022 appeared before the High Court (Criminal Division) in 2022.
The two Chinese nationals have been detained since their arrest and subsequent arraignment, while the Ghanaian has been granted bail.
The trial gained significant attention from the public because of their alleged involvement in a complex criminal operation in the mining sector.
However, the focus shifted to the female Chinese suspect’s well-being following a recent medical report indicating a significant deterioration in her health.
According to the report, she has been experiencing rapid heartbeats and nearly collapsed while in the Nsawam Female Prison.
Shortly after the incident, she attempted suicide using a cloth, leading the prison authorities to place her under constant suicide watch.
The defense legal team representing the Chinese nationals have repeatedly applied to the court for bail, citing the deterioration of her health conditions and potential human rights violations resulting from prolonged detention.
However, the prosecution, on the other hand, argued against granting bail, highlighting the severity of the charges and the risk of flight to justify their continued detention.
As the case progresses, all attention turns to the High Courts (Criminal Division) to address these concerns and take the necessary actions to safeguard the rights and well-being of these foreign nationals.
As part of the beginning of her defense before an Accra High Court, En Huang, alias Aisha Huang, the suspected galamsey kingpin, has filed her witness testimony.
En Huang is facing three counts of engaging in mining operations without a license, facilitating the participation of individuals engaged in illicit mining operations, and facilitating the employment of foreigners.
She is also accused of returning to Ghana after being expelled in 2018. But she has denied the accusations levelled against her.
In her five-page witness statement, admitted in evidence, Aisha, however, said: “My company (Golden Asia) did not own or operate a mining site in the Amansie Central District of the Ashanti Region.
“I did not engage or employ Gao Jin Cheng, Lu QiJun, Haibin Gao and Zhang Zhipeng to mine or provide mining support service from us or to anyone.
“I say that neither I nor my company, Golden Asia, nor myself have bought any farm or piece of land from prosecution witnesses four, five, six or anyone or own any piece or parcel of land or mining site in the Amansie Central District of the Ashanti region.”
Aisha claims that none of the excavators, “chanffans,” or other earth moving equipment purportedly discovered at the locations where the four Chinese nationals were detained was owned or used by her business, Golden Asia.
Two of the aforementioned Chinese nationals, according to Aisha, who was guided in her testimony by her defense team, had their passports with her in Kumasi.
However, Aisha acknowledged that once the four citizens were detained, she checked in with the Ghana Immigration Service to see how she could help.
She explained: “None of the four Chinese nationals is my family member.”
Aisha Huang also denied knowing or visiting any of the mining sites captured in the videos, pictures and maps tendered before the court by some witnesses.
According to Aisha, she also did not engage in any mining or provide any mining support services although they were licensed to do so.
She informed the court that she had lived in Ahodwo, Kumasi in the Ashanti Region from the year 2011 until she was deported in December 2018.
“I say that between the years 2013 and 2018 I operated a supermarket, popularly known as Aisha Supermarket at Ahodwo, Kumasi, having a dominantly Chinese customer base.”
The matter has been adjourned to July 17, 2023, for cross-examination.
Galamsey kingpin, Aisha Huang, currently on trial for illegal mining activities, has denied any involvement in mining activities in her witness statement.
Despite being deported in 2018 and returning to Ghana illegally, Huang refutes the charges of engaging in illegal mining, also known as galamsey, without a license.
The state has presented 11 witnesses testifying to Huang’s involvement in illegal mining in the Ashanti Region’s Amansie South District.
However, Huang insists that her firm has never participated in mining activities and lacks a mining license, claiming the evidence presented by the prosecution is false.
In a related development, Huang Lei, Aisha Huang’s son, was convicted and fined GH¢10,800 for overstaying his permit, possessing ammunition without lawful authority, and possessing forged official documents.
Huang Lei had initially pleaded not guilty but later changed his plea to guilty. He was sentenced by Justice Comfort Tasiame and ordered to be deported.
The Ministry of National Security is actively promoting its “see something, say something” campaign in the Upper East Region‘s border communities to prevent the infiltration of violent extremists into the country.
The campaign’s primary objective is to raise awareness and alertness among community members, encouraging them to report any suspicious individuals residing in their communities to security agencies. This collective effort aims to combat the threat posed by violent extremists.
Head of Client Services at the Ministry of National Security, emphasized the importance of vigilance and security consciousness among community members in border areas. She encouraged the sharing of intelligence with security agencies as a means to effectively address the menace of violent extremism.
“It has become important because of what is happening in our neighbouring countries—Togo, Burkina Faso, and the like. As we all know, about two weeks ago, we had an influx of refugees coming in. We can’t be sure who is coming in, even though some come in with the status of refugees. You can’t look at someone’s face and tell their intentions. That’s why we need to sensitize them to be aware of the dangers that come with this. And their roles as citizens to help safeguard national security.”
Mrs. Sekyere voiced her concern about the high number of prank calls received by the Ministry and urged Ghanaians to contact them solely when they observe genuinely suspicious activities or individuals.
“The whole idea of the campaign is for people to report suspicious activities. So, if you call without a valid report, it means you’re preventing someone else from getting through. Because sometimes the calls are queued. If you’re on the line and someone at the call center is attending to you, someone else will be waiting. You know how the system works. We’ve all heard the jingles.
She added, “Patience will run out for whoever is calling to volunteer that information. So, we try to discourage people from calling when they don’t have anything valid to say. The system works, that point is emphasized. It’s not a trial-and-error system. The call center works 24/7 effectively, and we have people on night and day duty. So, there’s no point calling to find out if the call center is really operational or not. That’s why we’re pleading with Ghanaians to stop pranking by asking if they can get some call credit. It’s time we took this seriously. This is a national assignment. It has no political affiliation or anything like that. You owe it as a duty, and I owe it as a duty to help safeguard national security.”
Luck evaded thirteen illegal miners who were operating in the Bonsa River in the Western Region, as they were all arrested by the Forestry Commission in an operation to clamp down on illegal mining activities, otherwise known as ‘galamsey‘.
The arrest was carried out by the Forestry Commission’s Rapid Response Team (RRT), upon intelligence gathering.
As per reports, the group of suspects consisted of seven individuals from Ghana and six individuals from China.
The arrested Ghanaian suspects have been identified as Halidu Salam, 32; Haruna Sule, 28; Atta Penyin Ayoma, 33; Kofi Taller, 43; Paul Agidi, 32; Amoako Emmanuel, 33; and George Addo.
The Chinese suspects on the other hand are Lua Lin Sie, Lui Chan Nai; Mo Nai Kong, Son Sin; Wei Jia Ping and Niu Wai Sing.
Currently, the suspects are in police custody, according to the Forestry Commission for legal proceedings.
The Rapid Response Team (RRT), made of twenty-one men drawn from four RRTs stationed in Tarkwa, Prestea, Samre conducted an operation in the neighboring communities of Epieso and Atwereboada, which are located on the outskirts of the Bonsa Reserves.
It was within that particular neighborhood that the compartment belonging to Samartax Company Limited was located, serving as the operational base for the suspects.
Aside from the arrest, five excavators and two motorcycles were destroyed by the RRT. The team also destroyed two long housing units and several fuel deposits.
In the interim, the Forestry Commission and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources have jointly urged the Ghana Police Service to expedite the legal processing of the perpetrators, while also requesting the judiciary to impose stricter penalties on them in accordance with the relevant legislation.
The RRT who embarked on the operation were made up of twenty-one men who drowned from four RRTs stationed at Tarkwa, Prestea, Samreboi and Takoradi.
A prominent figure named K. Gyamera, who participated in a panel discussion on Sompa FM, a radio station based inKumasi, has expressed his frustrations over Ghana’s lack of development despite the nation’s abundant resources.
Since achieving independence, Ghana has faced difficulties in effectively managing its affairs without external intervention.
In a widely shared video, the man, appearing to be in his 40s, suggests that Ghana’s leaders have not fully exploited these resources and proposes that it may be more beneficial to allow foreigners, particularly individuals of Caucasian descent, to take charge, as Ghanaians themselves are not fully utilising their own resources.
During a media interview on Friday, June 30, Gyamera passionately remarked that other countries rarely experience economic hardships due to their ability to maximise the potential of their limited resources through effective strategies and utilisation.
“Given that we are failing to harness the potential of our lands, we should allow the Whites to use our bodies as fertiliser by excavating us,” he said passionately.
“The Whites have a knack for making the most of what they have. Just look at the quality of their water—does it appear discoloured? We, on the other hand, are plagued by mismanagement, which is why our water is discoloured,” he added.
Gyamera emphasised the need for Ghanaians to unite and work collaboratively to bring about positive change within the country and on a global scale.
Efforts have been made by successive governments to transform Ghana’s fortunes; however, challenges persist.
Six Chinese individuals operating at an illegal mining site have been arrested by the Operation Halt II team in the Amansie Central Districtof the Ashanti Region.
The suspects, six Chinese and a Ghanaian, were found engaging in illegal mining in defiance of the government’s ban on activity, popularly known as galamsey.
They have wreaked havoc on the environment and water bodies, including River Offin.
Since Tuesday, June 6, the Operation Halt II team has mounted a sustained operation.
They have patrolled Apamprama Forest Reserve, Oda Forest Reserve, Bosomtwe Forest Range and other galamsey sites in Ashanti Region.
Districts visited included Amansie Central, Amansie South, Bekwai Municipal and Bosome Freho District.
Those arrested were galamsey operators mining off reserve area of Bosomtwe Range Forest, illegal mining sites and other unauthorized sites.
The team seized 30 excavators with some of them being decommissioned.
Other machines for illegal mining were also burnt by the team during the operation.
Their mission is to fight against illegal mining in forest reserves and river bodies.
Some Changfan machines, water pumping machines fuel storage tanks and other improvised mining equipment and structures were all affected.
The six Chinese arrested were handed over to the Immigration Officers in the Bekwai Municipality whilst the excavators were taken to the Central Command of the Ghana Armed Forces in Kumasi.
The Deputy Commander of the Operation Halt II, Lt. Col. Louis Boakye, said the exercise was to conduct confirmatory patrols in areas visited.
“We are undertaking confirmatory patrols to check whether we have illegal miners within our forest reserves we visited last time,” he stated.
He expressed worry on how the illegal miners have invaded forest reserves and destroyed economic trees and water bodies.
According to him, the action of illegal miners poses threat to farmers and security.
He appealed to the people to desist from negative practice.
He assured that “we fight to win and never give up”.
The Ring Leader of the Rapid Response Team of the Bekwai Forest District, Ebenezer Appiah, expressed serious concern about the way information is leaked to the galamsey operators when they are embarking on a patrol.
“We are doing our best to protect the forest reserves,” he said.
He said the continuous attacks on Team by the illegal miners pose serious threat to members.
Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei-Mensah, has said that illicit mining could be easily stopped if fathers intervened and counseled their children about the dangers of galamsey.
He stated that fathers have a responsibility to guide and encourage their families in doing the right thing, and hence their role in combating illegal mining cannot be overstated.
Speaking to journalists at an Anaq Foundation event commemorating World Father’s Day at Kokofu in the Bekwai Municipality, he remarked that fathers play an important role in society and should be acknowledged.
Unlike in the past, the Minister said that fathers now assist their wives in performing roles that were previously only performed by women.
“If my wife is there or not, I can just get up and start cooking, some responsibilities which were previously dedicated to women are now being performed by men,” he said.
He also mentioned that fathers bear enormous duties, such as providing for their families, but because the money is generally directed through the wife, the children always believe it is their mother’s labor.
Mr. Mensah went on to say that men who are irresponsible and left their families for drinking spots and other activities do not deserve to be praised.
Meanwhile, Dr Samuel Amanamah, Consultant Urologist at Kumasi South Hospital, added fathers must take their prostate health seriously because more men now die of the disease each year.
He stated that, while proper research has not been undertaken, preliminary data shows that the condition is increasing exponentially among men aged 40 and up.
Dr. Amanamah noted that processed foods, particularly red meat and fat, have been identified as highly harmful risk factors, and that men should limit their consumption.
He recommended fathers to acquire the habit of voluntary screening in order to discover cancer early and treat it.
Mrs. Ama Nyarko Attafuah Quainoo, President of the Anaq Foundation, stated that there is a need for dads to be acknowledged, which is why she annually arranges the event in various villages to recognize their contributions to society.
Oberima Offe Okoguyeasuo II, Chief of Kokofu
She stated that, in addition to honoring the fathers in the community, their health was taken seriously, as they were receiving free Sickle cell, eye, breast cancer, and prostate cancer screenings.
Mrs. Quainoo recommended fathers to prioritize their families’ health.
Oberima Offe Okoguyeasuo II, Chief of Kokofu, commended the Anaq Foundation and its partners for bringing the event to his town this year.
He advised fathers to take some responsibility by ensuring that their families’ needs are satisfied.
During the 33rd Annual General Meeting of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIMG) on June 14, 2023, Prof Stephen Adei, a Ghanaian economist and writer, raised questions about the treatment of former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Prof Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, in contrast to the freedom enjoyed by those involved in illegal small-scale mining, known as galamsey.
Prof Adei expressed his perplexity over the situation where the individual who exposes corruption and wrongdoing is the one facing prosecution.
As a former Rector of GIMPA, he voiced his concerns about the apparent inconsistency in holding accountable those responsible for galamsey activities while subjecting Prof Frimpong-Boateng to hassles and legal actions.
“One of the reasons why this country is not progressing is because of the lack of integrity of people. People are in authority; it is almost assumed not only by those who are in authority but people who are related to them to do wrong. So that parochially they will do better.
“I think that some things are going on now that men and women of integrity must speak out. For example, one of the most respected people in this country who have made the greatest contribution.
Unparalleled is Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng. He writes a report to the Head of State that some people are doing wrong and he is arrested. And those alleged criminals have not yet been called to be questioned,” Professor Adei said.
Prof. Adei also added that the moral decadence in the running of the state is glaring, hence people of integrity should speak up, instead of looking on to the point of no return.
“I believe that we are faced with issues of integrity and political expediency. As people and as an institute in our capacities this is the time that our voices must be heard. Because our country will not go far without integrity,” he added.
In a 36-page report, the former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Prof. Frimpong Boateng cited top officials engaged in illegal mining, as well as persons hindering the fight against the illegal menace.
On May 16, 2023, the former Minister of Science and Technology, Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng was arrested for corruption-related offences when he honoured an invitation to appear before the Office of the Special Prosecutor.
Prof. Frimpong-Boateng was released on a GH¢2 million bail.
The Accra High Court has rejected the “submission of no case” filed by En Huang, also known as Aisha Huang, the alleged Chinese illegal mining kingpin, in a illegal mining (galamsey) case.
In a ruling today, the court, presided over by Justice Lydia Osei Marfo, held that the prosecution had established a prima facie case against Aisha Huang, reports Graphic Online’s Emmanuel Ebo Hawkson.
Consequently, the court directed the accused person to open her defence to answer to the charges leveled against her.
Not guilty
En Huang, a Chinese national has been accused of being in the thick of affairs of galamsey, especially in the Ashanti Region.
She was deported from Ghana in 2018, after the A-G decided to discontinue her trial in which she was accused of engaging in small-scale mining without licence.
However, she was said to have sneaked back into Ghana to allegedly engage in the same activities for which she was deported.
The Attorney-General (A-G), Godfred Yeboah Dame, then decided to prosecute her for the alleged crimes before her deportation and new ones committed since her entry back into the country.
It is the case of the prosecution that Aisha had an illegal mining concession at Bepotenten in the Amansie West District in the Ashanti Region and also operated a mining support services company.
She has pleaded not guilty to undertaking a mining operation without a licence, facilitating the participation of persons engaged in a mining operation, the illegal employment of foreigners and entering Ghana while prohibited from re-entry.
