The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey has called for the immediate prosecution of Akonta Mining Ltd.
The group accuses the government of ignoring clear evidence of the company’s illegal mining activities that have destroyed forest reserves and polluted important water bodies.
In a statement released on Sunday, May 18, signed by Convenor Kenneth Ashigbey, the Coalition expressed shock and disappointment at the government’s failure to act.
They highlighted that despite public evidence, no legal action has been taken against Akonta Mining for unlawful operations in forest reserves and along rivers.
The Coalition warned that not prosecuting the company and any government officials involved sends a dangerous message of impunity and selective justice.
They said Akonta Mining has operated illegally since 2022, causing significant pollution of the Tano River and damage to the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.
These claims are backed by a documentary from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources showing the environmental harm caused by the company’s activities.
Although the government has frozen Akonta Mining’s bank accounts, the Coalition said this is only a partial measure and cannot replace full criminal prosecution.
They urged authorities to arrest and prosecute the Managing Director, all company directors, and any government officials from the Minerals Commission, Forestry Commission, and security services who may have aided or neglected to stop the illegal mining.
Background:
The government had earlier revoked Akonta Mining’s license following investigations that revealed the company’s illegal mining inside protected forest reserves.
A joint operation by the Ghana Police and Forestry Commission in April 2025 uncovered six illegal mining sites linked to Akonta Mining, resulting in 51 arrests and seizure of heavy equipment.
The company reportedly sold access to forest reserves to illegal miners for large sums, who then operated under Akonta’s protection, devastating the environment.
Despite these findings and arrests, no prosecution has started, prompting the Coalition’s strong demand for legal action to hold the company and any complicit officials accountable
Source: www.kumasimail.com
