Ghana’s military has launched a massive crackdown on illegal mining, also known as galamsey, destroying significant equipment on the first day of operation under the government’s “Operation Halt” initiative. The military targeted illegal mining sites across the country, particularly in water bodies and protected areas that have suffered severe environmental degradation.
This move aims to combat the devastating impact of galamsey, which has polluted rivers, destroyed farmlands, and led to deforestation in many parts of Ghana ¹.
The destruction of 18 chanfans, 10 industrial water pumping machines, and one excavator marks a significant step in the national effort to combat galamsey. Chanfans are large machines used to extract gold from riverbeds, causing extensive damage to water bodies and releasing toxic chemicals like mercury. Industrial water pumping machines are essential for washing gold-laden sediment from riverbeds, making it difficult for galamsey operators to continue without them. The excavator, used to dig large pits in the mining process, was set ablaze by the task force ¹.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s decision to intensify Operation Halt comes after mounting public pressure from environmental groups, civil society organizations, and citizens demanding action against galamsey.
The military’s focus on dismantling machinery used in illegal mining aims to cripple galamsey operations. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) acknowledges the difficulty in fighting galamsey but is committed to supporting the national effort ².
The operation is a crucial step towards protecting Ghana’s water bodies, agricultural lands, and environment.
The destruction of equipment and disruption of galamsey operations will help mitigate the devastating impact of illegal mining. Col. Eric Tenadu, Commander of the Operation Halt Task Force, expressed optimism that the operation would lead to a significant improvement in the condition of water bodies affected by illegal mining ¹.
The collaboration between the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners and the military is seen as a critical move in addressing the illegal mining menace, which has severely impacted Ghana’s water bodies and ecosystems. The military will remain stationed around the Birim River and other targeted areas for the next two weeks as part of the first phase of the operation against illegal mining ¹.
This intensified operation and growing public support may finally lead to a significant reduction in illegal mining activities in Ghana.
The government’s commitment to combating galamsey, along with the EPA’s support, is a promising step towards restoring the country’s natural resources and protecting its environment.
