The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has strongly condemned the recent attack on journalists from Citi News by illegal miners, commonly referred to as “galamsey” operators. The incident took place in the Breman-Adomanya forest area of the Wassa Amenfi West District in the Western Region, where these miners have been engaged in activities that are destroying timber and cocoa trees, rubber farms, and polluting the nearby River Tano.
In a press release issued on February 24, the Ministry expressed deep concern and outrage over the violent assault on the media personnel, stating that such acts against journalists who are merely performing their duty to inform the public are unacceptable. The Ministry emphasized the need for strong condemnation of such attacks.
According to the statement, the assault highlights the devastating impact of illegal mining in Ghana, not only in terms of environmental destruction but also through acts of violence and intimidation against those who seek to expose illicit activities. The Ministry described the attack as a direct threat to the rule of law, citizen safety, and press freedom, which are fundamental to democracy.
Reaffirming the government’s unwavering commitment to combating illegal mining and protecting natural resources, the Ministry stressed that the attack on the Citi News team serves as a stark reminder of why collective efforts are required to address the menace of galamsey. Illegal mining, the statement noted, is not just an environmental issue but a national crisis demanding the cooperation of government agencies, traditional leaders, local communities, and the media.
The Ministry also commended the bravery and dedication of the journalists who risked their lives to uncover the truth. Their investigative work, it stated, is crucial in holding perpetrators accountable and ensuring the public remains informed about the challenges of safeguarding Ghana’s natural heritage.
Sending a strong message to those responsible for the attack, the Ministry warned that the government will not tolerate such lawlessness. It assured the public that security agencies will work diligently to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure they face the full rigors of the law.
The incident has sparked renewed calls for greater protection of journalists in Ghana, particularly those reporting on illegal mining activities. Civil society organizations and media rights advocates have also condemned the attack, urging authorities to take swift action to bring the culprits to justice.
