Renewed Call for Transparency and Justice in Akonta Mining Case
Anti-galamsey advocates, Martin Kpebu and Ing. Kenneth Ashigbey, have reignited their pursuit of justice in the alleged illegal mining activities of Akonta Mining within the protected Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. In a renewed petition submitted to the Director General of the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) of the Ghana Police Service on February 24, 2024, the advocates expressed deep concern over the lack of progress in the investigation they initially lodged on October 13, 2022. They emphasized that Akonta Mining’s operations flagrantly violate Ghana’s Minerals and Mining Act, specifically Act 703 of 2006, as amended by Act 995 of 2019, which prohibits mining within forest reserves. This renewed petition underscores the urgent need for transparency and accountability in addressing illegal mining activities and protecting Ghana’s vital natural resources.
The petitioners’ central argument revolves around the apparent stagnation of the investigation into Akonta Mining’s alleged illegal activities. Despite filing their initial complaint over a year ago, they claim to have received minimal updates from the CID, raising fears that the case has been deliberately stalled. This lack of communication, coupled with the gravity of the alleged offenses, fuels suspicions of potential interference or a lack of commitment to pursuing justice. The petitioners assert that Akonta Mining’s operations within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve constitute a clear breach of Ghanaian law, causing irreversible environmental damage and undermining efforts to combat illegal mining.
The petitioners’ demand for a comprehensive update on the investigation’s status reflects their commitment to ensuring due process and holding those responsible accountable. They seek clarity on the steps taken by the CID, the evidence gathered, and any obstacles encountered during the investigation. This transparency is crucial not only for the petitioners but also for the broader public, as it demonstrates the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting Ghana’s natural heritage. The fight against illegal mining, often referred to as "galamsey," requires consistent and resolute action, and the lack of progress in this case sends a worrying signal.
Furthermore, the petitioners’ call for immediate action underscores the urgency of the situation. Illegal mining activities pose a significant threat to Ghana’s environment, leading to deforestation, water pollution, and land degradation. The Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve, like other protected areas, plays a vital role in preserving biodiversity, regulating water flow, and mitigating climate change. Akonta Mining’s alleged illegal operations within this reserve not only violate the law but also jeopardize the ecological integrity of the region and the well-being of communities that depend on these resources.
The petition also highlights the broader societal implications of unchecked illegal mining. Galamsey activities often fuel corruption, exacerbate poverty, and contribute to social instability. By demanding accountability in this specific case, the petitioners aim to send a strong message that such illegal activities will not be tolerated. Their persistence serves as a reminder that the fight against galamsey requires a multi-faceted approach, encompassing law enforcement, community engagement, and political will.
The renewed petition by Martin Kpebu and Ing. Kenneth Ashigbey represents a crucial step in the ongoing struggle against illegal mining in Ghana. Their demand for transparency, accountability, and immediate action is not only about the specific case of Akonta Mining but also about the broader fight to protect Ghana’s environment, uphold the rule of law, and secure a sustainable future for all its citizens. Their unwavering dedication serves as an inspiration to others working to combat this destructive practice and preserve Ghana’s natural resources for generations to come. The response of the CID to this renewed petition will be closely watched, as it will signal the government’s commitment to tackling illegal mining and ensuring justice prevails.
