The government has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling the illegal mining menace, commonly referred to as galamsey, by intensifying efforts under "Operation Halt." The operation, spearheaded by the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), aims to rid the country's water bodies of illegal small-scale mining activities that have been degrading natural resources.

The new phase of "Operation Halt" is set to bring on board the Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana in an unprecedented collaboration.

In a statement on Wednesday, October 9, the Information Minister noted that the initiative signals the government's strategic shift in involving legitimate small-scale miners to help clamp down on illegal operators who have been polluting rivers and destroying forests.

This collaboration comes at a crucial time as the country braces for a nationwide strike led by Organised Labour, set to begin on Thursday, October 10, 2024.