Inspector General of Police (IGP) COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno has vowed to wage an aggressive battle against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, warning that it poses a severe risk to both national security and the environment.
Addressing senior officers at the Regional Police Commanders’ Conference, COP Yohuno expressed deep concern over the increasing brazenness of illegal miners, particularly in the Western North region, where their activities have escalated.
He revealed that heavily armed criminals linked to galamsey operations have carried out violent attacks on civilians, including forest guards, fueling insecurity in affected communities.
“This level of lawlessness cannot be tolerated any longer. We are declaring war on illegal mining, and I expect every regional commander to take immediate and decisive action against those responsible,” he warned.
With law enforcement stepping up efforts to dismantle illegal mining networks, the IGP’s directive signals a renewed push to restore law and order in mining-affected areas while protecting Ghana’s natural resources from further destruction.
