In a move to protect the environment and stool lands, the Dormaahene, Osaagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Agyemang Badu II, personally led a targeted operation against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, on Monday. The King, accompanied by the Dormaa Anti-Galamsey Task Force and a delegation of chiefs from the Dormaa Traditional Council, stormed known galamsey hotspots in the communities of Dormaa-Akwamu, Akontanim, and Kobedi. The operation resulted in the arrest of three individuals suspected to be involved in the illegal activities. Furthermore, the task force seized and destroyed seven water pumping machines, a crucial tool used by the miners to wash the ore, effectively halting operations at the sites. All arrested suspects and the seized equipment have been handed over to the Ghana Police Service for further investigation and prosecution. Issuing a stern warning after the operation, Dormaahene Osaagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Agyemang Badu II declared a zero-tolerance policy for illegal mining on all Dormaa stool lands.
“Let this serve as a clear and final warning to all those engaged in this destructive activity,” the paramount chief stated. “You must cease your operations immediately. If you are caught, you will face the full rigors of the law without any mercy. We will not sit idle and watch our lands, forests, and water bodies be destroyed for selfish, short-term gains.” This hands-on approach by the Dormaahene has been widely praised by local residents and environmental advocates. It signals a powerful and unified front from traditional leadership in the ongoing national fight against galamsey, which has devastated vast tracts of land and polluted critical water sources across Ghana.
The operation underscores the commitment of the Dormaa Traditional Council to complement the efforts of national security agencies in preserving the region’s natural resources for future generations.