The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, amid increasing pressure from professional groups, associations, and unions calling for a state of emergency to address the crisis.
Illegal mining has caused severe environmental degradation, leading various stakeholders to demand a temporary ban on all forms of mining until a sustainable solution is found.
Speaking on Eyewitness News, Abu Jinapor acknowledged the public’s concerns but stressed the importance of a calculated and sustained approach to solving the issue.
He outlined measures the government has already undertaken, including the controversial policy of burning excavators used in galamsey operations.
The Minister reiterated that the government remains fully committed to eradicating illegal mining and is determined to implement lasting solutions to protect the country’s natural resources.
“As I say, the security agencies will make a determination as to how they will go about it and even if I am privy to it I shouldn’t be putting it out there. But I am saying to you that we will not relent in our efforts.
“As you rightly pointed out we have employed all kinds of measures including the burning of excavators, so many measures have been put in place over the period.
“The most important thing is that we do not relent on our efforts and we remain committed and focused on the fight,” he stated.
