Mukhtaru Mumuni Muktar, the Executive Director of the West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism, has emphasized the need for careful evaluation of the efforts of newly reshuffled police commanders, especially in the fight against illegal mining (galamsey).
His comments came in response to the recent reshuffling of police leadership in illegal mining hotspots across the country, initiated by the Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno.
Speaking on ABC Midday News on Tuesday, Muktar expressed support for the reshuffle but stressed that the effectiveness of the new commanders must be measured by the tangible results they produce.
“We have to be very deliberate about our measures in terms of the outcome they are indeed to produce. That way, it helps us see what progress and success comes with that measure,” he said.
Muktar’s insight focused on the importance of ensuring that police officers leading operations in galamsey-prone areas remain neutral and committed to the task at hand.
“It’s important that we retrieve the familiarity with the miners to ensure that officers leading the process are neutral, focused, and dedicated to fighting illegal mining,” he added. “So, it is in line to ensure that this initiative is properly executed.”
The reshuffle announced by IGP Yohuno forms part of a broader, ongoing strategy to intensify efforts against illegal mining.
The reshuffle primarily affects police commanders stationed in key regions most impacted by galamsey activities, including the Eastern South, Western, and Western North Police regions. According to police officials, further changes in command are expected in the coming weeks as part of an ambitious crackdown on the illegal mining industry.
The reshuffle is seen as a strategic attempt to strengthen law enforcement in areas plagued by illegal mining, which has led to significant environmental degradation, including the destruction of forest reserves and contamination of water bodies. With illegal mining continuing to pose serious challenges to the country’s development, the police reshuffle is viewed as an essential step toward restoring order and mitigating the adverse effects of galamsey activities.
