Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, has issued a stern warning to illegal miners, stating that the Regional Anti-galamsey taskforce will soon launch a crackdown on their activities.
The Minister’s warning comes after two siblings drowned in an abandoned mining pit at Akyem Abompe in Fanteakwa South District.
The incident brings the total number of children who have drowned in illegal mining pits in the region to three within a week.
The Minister was visibly upset after witnessing the devastation and dangers created by illegal miners at Abompe.
Awatey visited the bereaved family to offer condolences and assured them of justice. The father of the deceased children, Kwabena Adjei, spoke to the media, highlighting the need for urgent action to prevent such tragedies.
The Minister’s vow to crack down on illegal miners is part of the government’s efforts to address the environmental and social impacts of galamsey.
The Regional Anti-galamsey taskforce has been formed to tackle the issue, and Awatey has warned that nobody should attempt to plead for mercy on behalf of the illegal miners.
This development comes as the Eastern Region continues to grapple with the challenges posed by illegal mining.
The Minister’s commitment to addressing the issue is a step in the right direction, and it remains to be seen how effective the crackdown will be in preventing further tragedies.
