We’re doing our best – minister defends government’s efforts against illegal mining
The Eastern Regional Minister Seth Kwame Acheampong has defended the government’s efforts in battling illegal mining popularly known as galamsey.
Though he admits that there are challenges in his region regarding the battle against illegal mining, he believes they are making headway in the Eastern Region.
Some of the hitches they encounter in this fight according to the Minister is the fact some of the miners upon acquisition of the license veer off and disregard the rule and venture into where they are not supposed to.
Not discounting the economic prospects of mining, the Minister made a pledge saying “We will only
support responsible mining”.
Mr Acheampong complained that “When you crack the whip they complain that you are high-handed”. This according to him hampers government efforts at fighting illegal mining in the region.
According to the former legislator, they are unfazed by these challenges as they tackle illegal mining in the region adding that “We are not complaining we have not raised our hands in despair as some of the culprits have been nabbed”.
He also revealed that the region is not only battling against illegal mining but illegal sand winning and limestone as well.
