AROCHA Ghana, a prominent environmental conservation organization, is demanding the removal of the Eastern South Police Commander, DCOP George Boadi Bossman, and the Divisional Police Commander of Kyebi, ACP Reynolds Sam, following their alleged failure to curb illegal mining activities in the Eastern Region.
The call, supported by other environmental NGOs, comes after ongoing destruction of water bodies in the region due to ineffective policing of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
Despite collaborative efforts with civil society organizations, AROCHA claims water bodies like River Danso and River Birim have continued to suffer from contamination and environmental degradation.
At a press conference held in Accra on Friday, March 7, AROCHA’s Deputy National Director, Daryl Bosu, expressed frustration over the lack of accountability and leadership.
He described the actions of the two police commanders as a “clear indication of poor leadership and complicity.”
“We demand the replacement of DCOP George Boadi Bossman and ACP Reynolds Sam with officers committed to enforcing mining laws,” Bosu stated.
“Their failure to protect water bodies and halt illegal mining activities has exacerbated environmental damage.”
In addition to the call for the police commanders’ removal, AROCHA Ghana also urged for the replacement of the Executive Director of the Minerals Commission, criticizing the individual’s leadership for not adequately addressing the root causes of galamsey and its devastating impact on the environment.
“The current leadership of the Minerals Commission has failed to ensure responsible mining practices,” Bosu added.
“It is imperative that the government appoints a visionary leader who will prioritize environmental protection and regulate mining effectively.”
The pressure mounts on the government to take swift action in addressing the growing menace of illegal mining and its environmental consequences.