Ernest Ntim, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Atiwa East, was sentenced to eight days in prison by the Koforidua High Court 2 for his involvement in illegal mining operations (Galamsey) on protected property in the Eastern Region.
The court determined that Ntim and his team members were accountable for the devastation of farmlands, the poisoning of a vital water source that serves multiple nearby villages, and the pollution of the Koben River.
After multiple postponements, the court rendered its decision on Monday, December 15, finding that the illicit mining operations seriously harmed the environment and threatened the lives of locals in the impacted areas.
Ntim was accused of continuing to engage in galamsey activities in spite of an injunction application that was already pending before the court, leading to a contempt of court citation.
The ruling demonstrates the judiciary’s unwavering determination to stop illicit mining and environmental damage, particularly when public authorities are involved.
Despite numerous attempts by authorities to stop the practice, the Atiwa area in the Eastern Region has become more and more notorious for illegal small-scale mining, or galamsey.
Atiwa, which was formerly primarily recognised for its abundant forest reserves, productive farmlands, and essential water bodies, has recently developed into a hub for illegal mining activities.
Widespread environmental damage has resulted from these activities, including the devastation of farmlands, the loss of forest cover, and serious pollution of rivers and streams that provide drinking water to several villages.
The primary sources of revenue in the area, farming and fishing, have been negatively impacted by galamsey, according to locals.
Communities are reportedly forced to rely on alternate, frequently expensive water sources as a result of several bodies of water becoming unfit for home use.
The practice persists, frequently reappearing soon after enforcement actions, despite security services and regulatory authorities conducting sporadic operations to demolish illegal mining facilities.
Influential people’s involvement has also increased calls for greater accountability and sparked public outrage.
Source: newsthemegh.com