The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, John Peter Amewu has refuted reports suggesting that the King of Akyem Abuakwa, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin II is behind illegal mining activities in the Kibi area of the Eastern Region of Ghana.

In a statement signed by the Minister and dated May 8, 2017, he indicated that “the said BNI report only recorded a said perception against the Okyenhene’s Palace’ and did not accuse the Okyenhene or the Palace of being involved in any illegal mining activities like reports in the news have said.

Rather than backing ‘galamsey’ activities, Mr. Amewu stated that the Okyenhene’s Foundation has been one of the forerunners, fighting the course against illegal mining activities in the country.

Mr. Peter Amewu also revealed that checks done by the Lands and Resources Ministry point to the fact that the last task force disbandment from the Palace for any environmental protection works was done some three years back.

He therefore is entreating all traditional authorities and the Okyenhene to disregard these reports and pursue the fight against ‘galamsey’ to ensure the environment is protected.

A 31-paged BNI report stated that there is a perception among residents of Kibi that Okyenhene Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin II is behind illegal mining activities in the area. According to the report, the Okyenehene has constituted a taskforce as part of its environmental foundation who allegedly extort monies from illegal miners in the area.

Some chiefs and elders in Adieworsu, Jumako, Abura, Tontu and Mempeasem were also cited as being at the forefront of galamsey in their various areas.

Below is the full statement: