Prof. Kwadwo Appiagyei‑Tua, Professor of International Law and Human Rights at the University of Ghana School of Law, declared on JoyNews’ Newsfile that illegal mining in Ghana has transformed into a transnational organised crime. He argued that the activity is now driven by profit, coercion, violence and corruption, and that it extends beyond individual miners to include powerful networks of actors, including political figures.
Speaking on Saturday, the professor explained that the scale and organisation of illegal mining suggest a sophisticated criminal enterprise involving collaboration among different interests. He said the operations are no longer limited to miners at illegal sites but have developed into networks that facilitate the trade through political connections and other facilitation.
According to him, the profit‑driven nature of the operations, coupled with the use of coercion, violence and corruption, makes the fight against galamsey more complex.
"I am saddened; I don't know what words to use now, but I think the bottom line is that we should understand that galamsey is a transnational organised crime. This is a crime that seeks to make a profit through coercion, violence, and corruption. And we have seen that through networking, not only among the criminal actors but also among political appointees and the government in power, in several ways,"he added.
Prof. Appiagyei‑Tua’s remarks come amid growing concerns over the environmental and social damage caused by illegal mining, as well as the erosion of public trust in institutions. The professor called for a comprehensive approach that addresses the criminal networks, strengthens regulatory frameworks, and holds accountable those who facilitate the trade.
In the coming weeks, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources is expected to release a new policy framework aimed at curbing illegal mining. The government has also pledged to increase enforcement efforts and to collaborate with international partners to dismantle the transnational networks that sustain galamsey.
