Ashanti Minister Warns Illegal Miners: Vacate Forests and Water Bodies in Two Weeks

The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has given a firm two-week ultimatum to illegal miners operating in forests and water bodies within the region.

He warned that those continuing these activities beyond the deadline would face legal action, reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting the environment and natural resources.

In a statement, Dr. Amoakohene made it clear that anyone engaged in illegal mining within forest reserves must vacate the areas by February 21, 2025.

“We are giving them up to two weeks. If you are mining within the forest reserves and you don’t want to be on the bad side of the law, you have two weeks to leave the place,” he declared.

The Minister stressed the importance of supporting President John Mahama’s vision for responsible mining and sustainable natural resource management.

Dr. Amoakohene also outlined plans to address mining activities in water bodies, which have suffered from pollution caused by illegal mining operations.

He warned, “If you have any investment in the water bodies, polluting the water bodies, you have two weeks to leave. We will send out a team to make sure we restore normalcy within the mining sector.”

The Ashanti Region has been severely impacted by illegal mining, with its forests and rivers at constant risk.

Despite previous interventions, such as the seizure of mining equipment by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), illegal mining persists, leaving abandoned pits and environmental damage in its wake.

To combat the problem, Dr. Amoakohene revealed that his administration is taking a coordinated approach by collaborating with other regional ministers who share tributaries with Ashanti.

This strategy aims to create a unified effort in fighting illegal mining across the region.

The region’s authorities are determined to restore order and protect the environment, with the EPA already enforcing measures and seizing equipment from illegal mining operations.

Dr. Amoakohene’s message serves as a strong reminder that illegal mining will no longer be tolerated and that strict actions will follow for those who ignore the ultimatum.