Ras Deportee, a former member of Shatta Wale’s Shatta Movement and a vocal advocate against illegal mining (galamsey), has revealed the unfortunate turn of events during the Democracy Hub’s anti-galamsey protest.
Speaking in an interview with Andy Dosty on Hitz FM monitored by MyNewsGH.com, Ras Deportee disclosed that certain individuals infiltrated their ranks, acting as informants for the authorities, which ultimately led to several arrests, including his own.
“We were sold out,” Ras Deportee stated. “There were people who pretended to stand with us but were only there to relay information back to the authorities. That’s how they got us.”
His revelation highlighted the growing challenges facing activists who stand against galamsey, a practice that has wreaked havoc on Ghana’s environment and water bodies.
The protest, aimed at drawing attention to the devastating impact of illegal mining, quickly turned sour for many participants.
According to Ras Deportee, the infiltrators played a key role in their eventual detention, marking a dark chapter for those who risked their freedom to raise awareness about one of Ghana’s most pressing issues.
“We ended up in prison, simply for fighting for our people, for our land,” he lamented.
Ras Deportee also shared some harrowing details of their time behind bars. “It was not easy. The conditions in prison were tough, but what hurts the most was knowing that we were betrayed by some of our own,” he recounted.
Despite the hardship, Ras Deportee noted that his time in prison further strengthened his resolve to continue advocating against galamsey.
Reflecting on the lessons he learned, Ras Deportee stressed the importance of vigilance and caution in activist circles.
“One thing this has taught me is to be very careful about whom I trust,” he said. However, he made it clear that the experience has not dampened his passion for standing up for the rights of Ghanaians.
“Advocating for the people, for our land, is something I will never stop doing,” he affirmed, resolute in his commitment to the cause.