By: Kekeli K. Blamey
The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joseph Osei Owusu, has reaffirmed his stance on granting security agencies the authority to shoot and kill individuals engaged in illegal mining (galamsey) activities.
This comes amid growing concerns over the devastating impact of galamsey on Ghana’s environment.
Speaking on Accra-based Asaase Pa radio, Osei Owusu shared his experience with miners who breached prospecting permits to mine in unauthorized areas.
He emphasized that those destroying the environment should face severe consequences.
“If you meet someone destroying a river, what’s wrong with killing them?” Osei Owusu asked, reiterating his 2018 suggestion.
He believes the shoot-and-kill strategy would deter others from participating in illegal mining.
Osei Owusu acknowledged that arresting and prosecuting illegal miners is challenging, making drastic measures necessary.
“During Operation Galamstop, miners dive into the water and swim away when soldiers arrive. The only solution is to use a sniper to shoot them,” he stated.
The Bekwai legislator labeled those mining on water bodies as “wicked” and advocated for severe action. “Anybody who mines on water bodies is a wicked person and must be killed.”
Osei Owusu’s comments have sparked debate on the effectiveness and ethics of such measures in combating galamsey. While some support his stance, others argue for alternative solutions to address the complex issue.
