The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has disclosed that a total of 500 excavators have been seized from illegal mining sites across the country since he assumed office, as part of intensified efforts to clamp down on galamsey operations.
Addressing Members of Parliament on the floor of the House on Thursday, February 26, the Minister provided an update on government’s ongoing fight against illegal mining, which continues to pose significant environmental and security challenges nationwide.
Responding to questions from lawmakers, Armah-Kofi Buah disclosed that the seizures form part of coordinated operations undertaken by security agencies and officials of the Ministry to curb the destruction of water bodies, forest reserves, and farmlands.
In addition to the excavators confiscated at mining sites, Armah-Kofi Buah explained that another 490 excavators are currently being held at the port in Tema, pending the necessary clearance processes.
“Since my assumption of office, a total of 500 excavators have been seized at various illegal mining sites across the country. In addition, a total of 490 excavators have been impounded at the Tema Port awaiting clearance.
“I wish to state categorically that no excavator seized is missing or unaccounted for. The military and the Ministry of Lands have data on all the seized excavators and their locations.”
The Minister’s disclosure comes amid growing public concern over the proliferation of heavy-duty mining equipment in protected areas and the alleged disappearance of seized machines in previous anti-galamsey operations.
