OccupyGhana, a civil society and governance group, has urged the government to seize all lands in the nation used for illegal mining activities.
The group also suggested that the state should reclaim and use confiscated lands for agricultural purposes.
OccupyGhana’s call follows a widespread report on the activities of illegal miners, which have affected the supply of water in some areas as well as the destruction of farmlands in mining areas.
“Confiscate all Galamsey Lands! We propose an amendment to the law to criminalise landowners making lands available for Galamsey. Unless a landowner can prove that their land was forcibly taken over (by having made a contemporaneous report to the police) they should be taken to have abetted the offence by facilitating it. These lands should therefore be confiscated as ‘tainted property’ and then repurposed for public benefit, including reforestation, farming or even regulated mining.” It said in statement.
OccupyGhana further called for the prosecution of persons caught mining in protected areas to serve as a deterrent to others who intend to indulge in the activity.
“Take Immediate Action Against Galamsey Offenders! We call for urgent legal action against persons and companies accused of illegal mining, especially in protected areas. Government inaction, especially concerning politically connected entities, has fostered impunity and undermined public trust. This must be addressed forthwith.”
Ghana | Atinkaonline.com