President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has deployed the military and police to combat the rampant activities of galamsey.
This move follows a National Security Meeting that highlighted the severe destruction of river bodies and forestlands due to the illegal operations.
The deployment is widely seen as a heightened effort by the government to put an end to the decades-old menace, with many calling it a much-needed action after years of inaction.
For years, galamsey has wreaked havoc on the country’s natural resources, with mercury pollution in water bodies and the destruction of farmlands becoming a national crisis.
Despite past efforts, including Operation Vanguard in 2017, illegal miners have continuously found ways to sidestep the law.
The President’s latest directive is in response to growing public anger, as protests and demonstrations have mounted in recent months, demanding decisive action against those responsible for the destruction.
While government crackdowns on galamsey have had mixed results, the current military and police intervention aims to restore law and order in mining areas.
Many Ghanaians view this action as a long-awaited step towards holding those who have flouted environmental laws accountable, with hopes that this time, the perpetrators will be brought to justice.
