Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has raised concerns over the low prosecution rate of illegal miners, revealing that out of more than 800 cases recorded in recent years, fewer than 40 individuals have been successfully prosecuted.

Addressing Parliament, the minister expressed frustration over the weak enforcement of laws against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.

"In the last few years, the numbers on prosecution for illegal mining are not very encouraging. Out of over 800 cases, fewer than 40 people have been prosecuted," he stated.

The minister emphasized that illegal mining has escalated into a full-blown crisis, with severe consequences for Ghana’s environment, water bodies, and national security. He disclosed that 44 forest reserves have come under serious attack from galamseyers, with more than 5,000 hectares of land—equivalent to 7,000 football fields—completely destroyed.

Even more alarming, he noted that "over nine out of the 44 forest reserves have been completely taken over by these illegal mining gangs with impunity. The Forestry Commission no longer has access to these reserves."

In response to this growing menace, the government is set to launch a Blue Water Initiative, which will deploy river guards to monitor and clear water bodies affected by illegal mining activities.

"In the short term, we want to clear all water bodies from illegal mining activities through the use of river guards under our Blue Water Initiative. Details of this initiative will be provided during its launch in the coming weeks," he announced.

Despite ongoing efforts, including military deployments and stakeholder engagements, illegal mining continues to thrive, undermining conservation efforts. The minister stressed that stronger enforcement mechanisms, increased prosecutions, and stricter penalties are needed to curb the destruction of Ghana’s natural resources.

As public pressure mounts, authorities are being urged to take decisive action to ensure that illegal miners face the full force of the law.