Russians, Spaniards and Burkinabes cited in 'galamsey' activities

The Minerals Commission has named Indians, Russians, Spaniards, Burkinabes and other West African nationals as those engaged in illegal mining business in Ghana besides the Chinese.

The Commission is therefore proposing stiffer punishment such as harsher jail terms and confiscation of equipment to deter foreigners from engaging in illegal mining in Ghana.

Chief Executive Officer of the Mineral's Commission, Ben Aryee said the Minerals and Mining Act will be reviewed to give room for that.

At a news conference on Tuesday in reaction to scuffles between some Chinese and locals of Manso Siana in the Amansie West district of the Ashanti region over illegal mining, Mr. Aryee warned staff of the commission condoning illegal mining activities to desist from that or face the sack.

He also expressed concerns about Ghanaians fronting for foreigners to acquire small scale mining licenses to refrain from such bad habits.

He added that illegal mining poses a threat to national security and therefore must be harshly dealt with. He added that the illegal mining menace is a test case for all regulators.**