By: African mining market

The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG) has issued a strong call to government for the immediate arrest and prosecution of directors of Akonta Mining Ltd. and culpable government officials over their alleged involvement in illegal mining activities that have caused extensive environmental damage.

In a press statement released Sunday, 18th May 2025, the coalition expressed deep disappointment over what it described as the government’s “copious failure” to act on well-documented evidence of illegal mining by Akonta Mining Ltd. since 2022.

The group cited the pollution of major water bodies like the Tano River, and the destruction of the Tano Nmiri Forest Reserve as clear examples of the environmental devastation caused by the company.

GCAG pointed to a documentary released by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources which detailed the extent of the damage caused by Akonta Mining. Despite assurances from the ministry of swift action, the coalition said no arrests have been made, and prosecution is yet to commence, describing the delay as dangerous and suggestive of political interference.

“While we acknowledge that the government has done well to freeze the accounts of Akonta Mining Ltd., there is no justification for the continued delay in prosecuting those responsible,” the statement read.

The coalition is demanding that the Managing Director/CEO, all directors of Akonta Mining, and any complicit government officials from agencies such as the Minerals Commission, Forestry Commission, and security services be prosecuted under Act 995.

According to the GCAG, failure to act decisively undermines the government’s commitment to fighting illegal mining and fosters a culture of impunity.

The group also reminded President John Dramani Mahama and Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin of a pending petition regarding the alleged involvement of Oscar Larbi, MP for Aowin, in illegal mining activities. The coalition said it is still awaiting a response.

Comprising over 20 civil society and professional organisations; including the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, Ghana CSOs Platform on SDGs, and the Ghana Mine Workers Union; the GCAG reiterated that the fight against galamsey must be “fair, fearless, and uncompromising.”

“The time has come for the government to send a strong and unambiguous message that no one is above the law,” the statement concluded.