The Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, has issued a strong warning to individuals engaged in illegal mining activities on rubber plantations in the region.
The caution follows a joint visit by the Western Regional Security Council (REGSEC) and the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) to assess the impact of illegal mining on rubber plantations.
In a Facebook post on Saturday, April 4, Mr Nelson said the visit was prompted by a series of complaints from the management of Ghana Rubber Estate Limited over the extensive damage caused by illegal miners.
He described the destruction of the plantation as “inhumane” and condemned those responsible for the acts.
“Having witnessed the vast destruction of the rubber plantation, I can boldly say that it is inhuman for any right-thinking individual to plan such evil and deliberately decide to commit such an act,” he said.
Mr Nelson warned that individuals and residents found engaging in such activities would face the full rigours of the law.
“I would like to use this opportunity to issue a very strong warning to all those engaged in this activity, as well as residents of these areas who have any involvement in the destruction of the plantation. From now on, you must desist from entering the plantation to engage in such activities.
“If you fail to do so, you will face a very serious and befitting response, one that will not be good for you,” he added.
He further cautioned against illegal mining in water bodies and forest reserves, stressing that offenders would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
