Samuel A. Jinapor, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, has reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing illegal mining, or galamsey, despite mounting pressure from various professional groups, associations, and unions calling for a state of emergency to tackle the crisis.
The impact of illegal mining has led to significant environmental damage, prompting calls for a temporary ban on all mining activities until a sustainable solution is found.
Speaking on Eyewitness News, Jinapor acknowledged these concerns but emphasized the need for a measured and ongoing approach to resolving the issue.
He highlighted the government’s current efforts, including the controversial policy of burning excavators used in galamsey operations.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s dedication to eliminating illegal mining and its determination to implement effective solutions to safeguard the country’s natural resources.
“As I say, the security agencies will make a determination as to how they will go about it and even if I am privy to it I shouldn’t be putting it out there. But I am saying to you that we will not relent in our efforts.
“As you rightly pointed out we have employed all kinds of measures including the burning of excavators, so many measures have been put in place over the period.
“The most important thing is that we do not relent on our efforts and we remain committed and focused on the fight,” he stated.
