Gov't partners with Military, Small-Scale Miners to fight galamsey with 'Operation Halt'

Oct 9, 2024 - 15:48

Nov 9, 2024 - 10:49

Gov't partners with Military, Small-Scale Miners to fight galamsey with 'Operation Halt'

Accra, Ghana - October 9, 2024 - The government has concluded operational measures to intensify its fight against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, through the ongoing Operation Halt.

Information Minister Fatimatu Abubakar made the announcement on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 stating that personnel from the Ghana Armed Forces will lead the operation in collaboration with the Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana.

The operation aims to chase illegal miners away from polluting Ghana's river bodies, which have been declared "red zones" by the government.

Fatimatu Abubakar is Information Minister

This move comes as Organised Labour prepares to embark on an indefinite strike action starting Thursday, October 10, over the government's failure to grant their demands, including the repeal of LI 2462.

LI 2462, a legislative instrument, permits the prospecting of gold in forest reserves and has been a contentious issue. Organised Labour and other organisations have also demanded a ban on all forms of mining along river bodies.

Operation Halt was initially launched to take action against illegal mining in forest reserves and water bodies. The operation has been revamped, with Operation Halt II being relaunched in October 2022 to further strengthen the fight against galamsey.

Find the full statement below.