The Koforidua High Court 2 has sentenced Atiwa East Municipal Chief Executive, Ernest Ntim, to eight days in jail for contempt over his involvement in illegal mining activities on protected land in the Eastern Region.
The court found Ntim and members of his team guilty of destroying farmlands, polluting the Koben River, and contaminating a key water source relied on by several communities.
The ruling was delivered on Monday, December 15, following multiple adjournments. The court held that the illegal mining operations caused extensive environmental damage and posed a serious threat to local livelihoods.
Ntim was cited for contempt of court after he allegedly continued engaging in galamsey activities despite an existing injunction application before the court.
The judgment underscores the judiciary’s firm stance against illegal mining and environmental degradation, particularly involving public officials.
