By Alex Baah Boadi
Sefwi-Wiawso (WN/ R), March 25, GNA – The Western North Regional branch of the National Peace Council has expressed concern about the increasing activities of illegal logging and mining popularly known as galamsey in Forest reserves in the region.
The Council noted that the situation was serious around Agyimadiem in the Juaboso district and Enchi in the Aowin municipality of the Region.
According to the Peace Council, the activities posed significant threats not only to the environment but also to the security and stability of a good number of communities in the Region.
“Recent clashes in these areas underscored the urgent need for decisive action to deal with the situation”.
In a statement issued and signed by Most Reverend Samuel Nkuah Boateng, Regional chairperson of the council and copied to the Ghana News Agency, emphasised that reports of violent confrontations between illegal operators, community members and the security agencies highlighted the potential for escalating conflicts if immediate and decisive interventions were not undertaken.
“The lawlessness associated with these activities fuel’s insecurity, disrupts local livelihoods and undermines efforts to maintain peace and order in the Region,” the statement said.
The Council has in this regard, appealed to the government to act swiftly and decisively to address these “two evils” of illegal logging and mining activities.
“The Peace Council stands in solidarity with well meaning groups advocating for enhanced enforcement of environmental and mining regulations to curb illegal operations”.
The Council urged the government to strengthen security interventions, empower locals law enforcement and enforce stricter penalties against perpetrators and their sponsors.
The statement reaffirmed it’s commitment to fostering peace and stability in the Region and called on major stakeholders, including traditional authorities, security agencies, civil organizations, politicians, and community members to collaborate with the government to address this pressing security challenge.
The Council called for unity and togetherness to preserve the environment, safeguard the communities, and ensure lasting peace in the Region.
GNA
JP/LAA