Government Officials Involved in Illegal Mining Will Be Arrested – Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga

The Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, has announced that government officials implicated in illegal mining activities will face arrest, reaffirming the administration’s renewed resolve to combat the escalating environmental crisis caused by galamsey.

His remarks follow a call by the Minority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, for weekly updates from the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources on the worsening destruction of forests and water bodies. According to Annoh-Dompreh, persistent devastation across the country demands closer parliamentary scrutiny.

Addressing Parliament, Ayariga stressed that President John Dramani Mahama is committed to allowing the law to deal with any appointee involved in illegal mining. He drew a contrast with former President Akufo-Addo’s administration, claiming that officials and party actors accused of engaging in galamsey faced no consequences.

“Any government official found aiding and abetting will be arrested,” Ayariga asserted, adding that political rank would not shield offenders. “Whether at the national or regional level, if you are caught, the president will not intervene.”

He referenced past instances when regional party executives were reportedly involved in galamsey despite ministerial reports, saying such inaction will not be repeated under the current administration.