Bono Minister warns chiefs, individuals aiding illegal mining
The Bono Regional Minister, Joseph Addae Akwaboa, has issued a strong warning to traditional leaders and individuals alleged to be aiding illegal mining activities in the region, urging them to desist immediately or face the full force of the law.
Speaking at the inauguration of the reconstituted Bono Regional Coordinating Council in Sunyani, Mr Akwaboa condemned the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining and emphasised the government’s commitment to eradicating the menace.
He commended the security services for their continuous efforts in combating the practice, particularly through operations led by the Regional Security Council (REGSEC).
According to the Minister, two major anti-illegal mining operations were recently carried out in Branam, located in the Wenchi Municipality, as well as in several Banda District communities, including Serigbo, Nipanikro, and Bandaboase.
These operations resulted in the seizure of 11 excavators and 31 motorbikes. Additionally, fifteen Chinese nationals were arrested, prosecuted, and subsequently repatriated.
“No one, irrespective of their background or status, will be spared if caught supporting or engaging in illegal mining,” Mr Akwaboa cautioned.
He emphasised that the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operation Security (NAIMOS) Taskforce has commenced its activities and will intensify operations across the region, closing down all illegal mining sites.
“If you will not stop, we shall stop it for you,” he stated, assuring that REGSEC remains committed to restoring environmental sanity and protecting the region’s natural resources.
The newly reconstituted Bono Regional Coordinating Council comprises Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), Presiding Members, representatives from the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, Heads of Departments and Agencies, and the Regional Coordinating Director, in line with the Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936).
Mr Akwaboa urged the Council members to align their efforts with the government’s development agenda and focus on delivering tangible progress to the region.
Adding his voice, Banda District Chief Executive Peter Dongi appealed to traditional authorities to actively support the anti-illegal mining drive, noting that as custodians of the land, chiefs have a duty to protect it for future generations.
Touching on broader security concerns, the Regional Minister stated that the Bono Region has generally remained calm and peaceful.
However, the Regional Minister acknowledged isolated incidents of armed robbery, theft, rape, defilement, drug abuse, and other crimes, which he said have been effectively managed by the police and other security agencies.
He emphasised that peace and security are critical to the region’s development and must be safeguarded at all costs.
Mr Akwaboa expressed concern over ongoing chieftaincy disputes, particularly in Sampa within the Jaman North District, which he described as a significant impediment to the socio-economic progress of the area.
He also urged the Bono Regional House of Chiefs to expedite the resolution of such disputes, especially those pending before the Judicial Committee.
