Governance expert, Frederick Oduro has advocated for more aggressive measures against public servants involved in illegal mining, and labelled galamsey as an “organized crime.”

Speaking on Morning Starr with Naa Dedei Tettey, he emphasized that, “They have even become powerful individuals, that is why I’m telling you this is organized crime,” Mr. Oduro declared.

Mr. Oduro discussed recent measures taken by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, on the destoolment of chiefs who engaged in illegal mining. “Very recently, Otumfuo destooled some chiefs who were actively engaged in galamsey.Otumfuo can destool chiefs. Why can’t we sack chief executives? Why can’t we sack police commanders who are complicit in this?”

The expert voiced displeasure with the apparent lack of sanctions for officials implicated in galamsey, noting specifically the cooperation of security forces. “We sent military troops to some places, and the situation became worse because they were even compromised,” he explained. He also criticised government figures, who have been linked to unlawful mining activities. “Political figures in this country, from ministers, members of parliament, district chief executives, are known to be complicit,” he stated.

Beyond the political leadership, Mr. Oduro was also concerned about party operatives and the role they play in sustaining illegal mining. “Party chairpersons at the various constituency and regional levels are known to be complicit, but what has been done to any of these?” he questioned.

He also expressed concern about the involvement of sophisticated weapons, indicating that some galamsey operators had developed modern weapons. “We have seen pictures and videos of people involved in this who are building sophisticated weapons, and we sit here and allow them to continue,” he said.