A leading environmental advocacy group, the Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey, is calling on the government to prosecute Akonta Mining Ltd for alleged illegal mining activities.
The company’s operations have caused significant environmental damage, including the destruction of forest reserves and pollution of water bodies.
In the statement issued on Sunday, May 18, and signed by the Coalition’s Convenor, Kenneth Ashigbey, the group expressed “shock and disappointment” by the government’s inaction despite overwhelming evidence.
“We are shocked and disappointed by the government’s inaction despite the overwhelming evidence of Akonta Mining’s illegal activities,” Ashigbey stated.
The Coalition asserts that Akonta Mining has been operating illegally since 2022, with its activities linked to the pollution of the Tano River and destruction of the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. An investigative documentary by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources supports these claims.
While the government has frozen Akonta Mining’s bank accounts, the Coalition says this measure is insufficient. “Freezing their bank accounts is only a partial measure; it cannot replace full criminal prosecution,” the statement read.
The Coalition also demands accountability from officials who may have aided or enabled Akonta Mining’s activities.
“The failure to prosecute the company and any complicit government officials sends a dangerous message of impunity and selective justice,” the statement warned.
