The National Association of Small-Scale Miners Taskforce has voiced its frustration over persistent interference from politicians and community leaders in its efforts to clamp down on illegal mining, also known as galamsey.
The Commanding Officer of the task force, Major Patrick Don-Chebe expressed concerns about the challenges they face, citing how political figures and traditional leaders often intervene to protect offenders.
In an interview with Channel One TV's Neil Nii Kanarku, as part of a Six-hour-long campaign against illegal mining dubbed 'I stand against galamsey', Major Don-Chebe explained how these interferences undermine the task force's operations.
Despite these setbacks, Major Don-Chebe remains determined to continue the fight against illegal mining, particularly in areas like the Birim River where galamsey activities have been rampant. "We face a lot of challenges through this operation.
When you arrest someone, you will see that these so-called chiefs, honourable, and opinion leaders, come inside and start to beg.
But if we say we will listen to these kinds of pleas, I don't think we can achieve anything. "There are chiefs and so-called big men in politics, but I am not giving up.
They were doing illegal mining in the Brim River and I have been given the mandate to operate on the Birim.
So, anybody here I will arrest you," he stated.