By Erica Apeatua Addo
Tarkwa (W/R), Feb. 25, GNA – The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has condemned the recent attack on Mr Akwasi Agyei Annim, the Western Regional correspondent of Citi News, by illegal miners operating in the Breman-Adomanya forest area in the Wassa Amenfi West Municipality.
According to the Ministry, this brazen act of violence against media personnel who were performing their duty to inform the public was utterly unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms.
A statement signed by Mr Abraham Otabil, the Assistant Head of the Public Relations Unit of the Ministry and copied to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), said the attack underscored the pervasive and destructive nature of illegal mining activities in the country.
It said the operators did not only destroy the environment, pollute water bodies, and degrade forest reserves, but also resorted to violence and intimidation to protect their illicit activities,
“This is a direct threat to the rule of law, the safety of citizens, and the freedom of the press, which is a cornerstone of our democracy,” it said.
“As a Ministry, we reiterate the government’s unwavering commitment to combating illegal mining and protecting our natural resources. The attack on Citi News team is a stark reminder of why we must collectively fight this menace” the statement said
“Illegal mining is not just an environmental issue, it’s a national crisis that requires the concerted efforts of all stakeholders, including the government agencies, traditional leaders, local communities, and the media.”
The statement further said, “We commend the bravery and dedication of the journalists who risk their lives to expose the truth. Their work is critical in holding perpetrators accountable and ensuring that the public remains informed about the challenges we face in safeguarding our natural heritage.
To the perpetrators of this attack, let this serve as a clear warning: the government will not tolerate such lawlessness. We will work closely with the security agencies to ensure that those responsible are apprehended and face the full rigorous of the law.”
The statement urged Ghanaians to unite in the fight against illegal mining to protect the environment, livelihood, and future, saying “together, we can restore the integrity of our lands and ensure that our natural resources benefit all citizens, not just a few selfish individuals.”
GNA