Lawyer advocates tough anti-galamsey law allowing use of lethal force

A legal practitioner, Kwame Boafo Akuffo, has called for the passage of a law that would permit the use of lethal force against individuals engaged in illegal mining activities in Ghana’s forests and water bodies.

He argued that galamsey has escalated into a national security and public health crisis, requiring stronger and more decisive measures rather than what he described as lenient approaches.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, April 25, he proposed the use of surveillance drones to monitor mining zones regularly, with strict enforcement actions taken against those who ignore directives to halt illegal operations.

According to him, such a legal framework would empower authorities to take immediate action against offenders who continue to endanger lives and the environment.

Mr. Akuffo justified his stance by citing existing laws that allow the use of force in situations where lives are at risk or when individuals resist lawful arrest.

He linked illegal mining to severe environmental destruction and public health concerns, particularly the pollution of water sources, which he said continues to affect communities and livelihoods.
He further maintained that previous interventions have not been effective in stopping galamsey, stressing the need for a more robust and unconventional response to tackle the issue.