Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has revealed that more than 850 individuals are currently facing prosecution for their involvement in illegal mining, widely referred to as galamsey. This disclosure comes as concerns continue to mount over the severe damage galamsey is inflicting on Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves.
Speaking at the 2024/2025 annual general conference of the Ghana Bar Association, Yeboah Dame provided updates on the government’s ongoing efforts, stating that 140 cases related to illegal mining are under investigation across five regions: Western, Eastern, Ashanti, Greater Accra, and Upper East.
He acknowledged the challenges prosecutors are encountering in court but emphasized the progress made so far, including securing 76 convictions since August 2021. This includes the notable conviction of Chinese national Aisha Huang, who has been widely recognized as a key figure in illegal mining activities.
“The criminal division has enjoyed some success, even though there is still room for more to be done,” Yeboah Dame remarked. “From August 2021 till date, at least 76 persons including 18 foreigners have been convicted. They include the acclaimed Chinese galamsey queen, Aisha Huang who was convicted on December 4, 2023, of offences committed between 2014 and 2016 in the era of the previous government.”
He further assured that the government remains steadfast in its fight against galamsey, imposing harsh penalties on offenders. “Most of the convicts were sentenced under the new law Act 995 for a minimum of 15 years plus a hefty fine for non-Ghanaians,” he noted, adding that sentences for non-Ghanaian offenders could reach up to 20 years, depending on the severity of the crime.
Yeboah Dame also expressed optimism about the judiciary’s role in the ongoing battle, stating that several cases are nearing conclusion. He emphasized the importance of the courts in ensuring that those found guilty face appropriate penalties.
“Currently, over 140 cases of illegal mining involving over 850 accused persons are being prosecuted in court in the Western, Eastern, Ashanti, Greater and Upper East regions of Ghana. Some are near conclusion,” he said.
The Attorney General reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ending the menace, ensuring that both local and foreign perpetrators face the full force of the law.
