The Paramount Chief of Lower Axim, Awulae Attibrukusu III, has spearheaded an operation alongside his sub-chiefs to apprehend illegal miners in the Nzema East Municipality of the Western Region.
During the operation, three individuals were caught mining unlawfully at the Ewuku galamsey site.
This initiative follows a fact-finding mission launched by the Chief in response to concerning reports from the traditional council’s disciplinary committee about the surge in illegal mining activities.
The arrested individuals include two Ghanaians and one Chinese national, apprehended by Awulae Attibrukusu III and members of the traditional council.
The illegal miners were caught in the act, operating excavators and mining equipment on extensive degraded land.
They have since been handed over to the Nzema-East Divisional Police Command for further legal action.
However, upon approaching the Kegyina galamsey site, the miners managed to flee, leaving their excavators, working gear, and uniforms behind.
Awulae Attibrukusu III raised concerns over the significant environmental degradation caused by galamsey, emphasising its harmful effects on land, water bodies, and agricultural resources, which threaten the livelihoods of local communities.
Hereiterated his firm opposition to illegal mining and has consistently urged fellow chiefs during traditional council meetings to abstain from supporting such activities.
The Paramount Chief cautioned that chiefs permitting galamsey operations on their land will face severe repercussions, including the possibility of dethronement or suspension
As a former President of the National House of Chiefs, the Paramount chief reaffirmed his commitment to eradicating illegal mining within the region and has urged fellow chiefs and queen mothers to distance themselves from these practices.
Awulae Attibrukusu III also called on government officials and political leaders to enhance their efforts in combating illegal mining nationwide.
He stressed that ignoring the galamsey crisis not only endangers the environment but also poses a significant risk to the overall well-being of the nation.
