The Deputy CEO of the Forestry Commission, Elikem Kotoko, is pushing for tougher judicial action against illegal mining, warning that enforcement without prosecution will not deliver lasting results.
Speaking to Moro Awudu on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana on April 30, he said public concern is increasingly focused on accountability.
“People now want to see more prosecutions to serve as a deterrent,” he said.
According to Mr Kotoko, government is working with the Attorney General and the judiciary to establish specialised courts to fast-track galamsey-related cases.
“This is ongoing. We need to ensure that offenders face swift justice,” he stated.
He did not mince words about those involved in illegal mining.
“These people must be considered environmental criminals who are destroying lives,” he said, stressing that the impact goes beyond environmental degradation.
“Galamsey takes lives. It’s not just about dignity.”
While some have called for extreme measures, including shoot-to-kill approaches, Mr Kotoko rejected such ideas.
“You cannot live in a banana republic,” he cautioned, signalling the need for lawful but firm enforcement.
He also emphasized complementary strategies, including the Responsible Corporate Mining and Skills Development Programme, aimed at formalising small-scale miners.
“If you want to mine, do it the appropriate way,” he urged.
Despite acknowledging ongoing illegal activities in some areas, he insisted progress is undeniable.
“We are not where we were. That is very significant.”
