The Tano North Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Pius Samson Opoku, has unequivocally asserted that his administration has spearheaded a significantly intensified effort to combat illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, within the municipality. His words highlight a resolute and determined approach to the issue, a position that contrasts sharply with perceptions suggesting a lack of proactive action. Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Opoku emphasized that the Assembly has undertaken a series of substantial measures designed to curtail this illicit activity, and that the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has been consistently deployed to the region, exceeding eight deployments throughout the past year. He clarified that the Assembly has partnered with mining company Newmont to establish a joint taskforce focused on monitoring and responding to illegal operations within Tano North. Mr. Opoku underscored that his leadership has yielded demonstrable progress in the fight against galamsey, claiming he has achieved significant advancements compared to other authorities in Ghana. He acknowledged that illegal mining persists in certain areas of Tano North, but stressed that the Assembly has not been complacent in addressing the problem. Specifically, the repeated deployment of NAIMOS, alongside the activities of the Assembly-Newmont taskforce, constitutes a sustained, coordinated effort to monitor and prevent illegal mining. He emphatically rejected the suggestion that the continued presence of galamsey signifies a failure on the part of the Assembly to take decisive action. “NAIMOS has been deployed more than eight times,” Mr. Opoku stated, “and the perception is that galamsey is continuing, but we are actively engaged in mitigation.” The MCE further maintained that the Assembly will continue to collaborate with security agencies and other stakeholders to safeguard the municipality’s natural resources and prevent impunity among illegal miners. He underscored that the fight against galamsey necessitates sustained enforcement and collaborative efforts, emphasizing the Assembly’s unwavering commitment to intensifying its interventions and protecting the municipality’s vital resources. The statement underscores Opoku’s strategic positioning as a key figure in tackling the issue, highlighting his commitment to a proactive and comprehensive approach to combating illegal mining within Tano North.” ,
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Source: Adom Online
