The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG) has issued a strong call on the government to immediately begin the prosecution of the Chief Executive Officer and management of Akonta Mining Limited over their alleged involvement in illegal mining activities.

In a statement released in Accra on Sunday, the Coalition expressed deep disappointment at what it described as the government’s “copious failure” to enforce the law despite overwhelming evidence against the company. The group commended the state for freezing the company’s accounts but insisted that the action be followed by swift arrests and prosecutions.

“The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey is highly disappointed and shocked by the government’s failure to take legal action against Akonta Mining, whose illegal activities have led to severe environmental degradation, including the destruction of the Tano Nmiri Forest Reserve and pollution of water bodies such as the Tano River,” the statement read.

According to the Coalition, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources had itself produced a documentary that highlighted the unlawful operations of Akonta Mining, promising firm action against those responsible. However, the Coalition lamented that no arrests or prosecutions had taken place a month after the exposé.

“This sets a dangerous precedent and sends a message of impunity and political tolerance of illegality,” the group warned.

The Coalition is urging the government to take decisive action by arresting and prosecuting not only the CEO and directors of Akonta Mining but also any public officials found to have aided or abetted the company’s activities, in accordance with Act 995.

“This is the time to send a strong and unambiguous message to politically exposed persons that impunity will not be tolerated,” the statement continued. “The fight against galamsey must be fair, fearless, and uncompromising.”

The group also reminded President John Dramani Mahama and Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin of a pending petition requesting action against the Member of Parliament for Aowin, Oscar Larbi, over alleged involvement in illegal mining.

The Coalition noted that it was still awaiting a response.

The statement was signed by Kenneth Ashigbey, Convenor of GCAG, and member Senyo Hosi.