The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has shut down a mining site in Ghana’s Western Region, specifically in the Mpohor District, over alleged illegal small-scale mining activities and significant environmental breaches. The operation, which took place on Monday, May 18, targeted a site allegedly linked to former Mpohor District Chief Executive (DCE) Asaah Mensah and another operator, Obed Osei.
This action is part of a broader, nationwide compliance exercise by the EPA aimed at curbing illegal mining and enforcing environmental regulations within the country’s extractive industry.
Context of the Clampdown
The EPA’s intervention comes at a time when Ghana is intensifying efforts to combat illegal small-scale mining, commonly known as ‘galamsey’. This practice has been a persistent environmental and governance challenge, leading to widespread destruction of forests and pollution of vital water bodies.
Ghanaian law restricts small-scale mining operations to its citizens. However, there has been a growing concern over the increasing involvement of foreign nationals, particularly from China, in these activities, often operating outside legal frameworks.
Allegations and EPA Findings
During an inspection led by Harrison Afful, the Deputy Director of Mining at the EPA, the site operated by JKCem I AM Gold was found to be in violation of multiple environmental and mining laws. Officials noted the alleged presence of numerous Chinese nationals actively engaged in the mining operations.
Leave a Reply