Galamsey fight: Gomoa Assin chief proposes ‘shoot on sight’ approach

The Omanhene of Gomoa Assin Traditional Council, Obrifo Ahunako Ahor Ankobea II, has urged President John Dramani Mahama to implement stricter measures, potentially including a "shoot-on-sight" directive, to combat illegal mining activities. He claims that illegal mining, or "galamsey," continues to endanger Ghana's water bodies, forests, and other natural resources despite numerous efforts to control the issue.

Ankobea II portrays galamsey perpetrators as enemies of the state, claiming they destroy the nation's natural resources for personal gain. He also demanded President Mahama to escalate the fight against illegal mining and take decisive actions to safeguard the country's vital resources. The Omanhene expressed his disapproval of recent assaults on military personnel assigned to combat illegal mining, calling such actions unacceptable.

This statement came during the inauguration of his 25th anniversary on the throne, which is part of his plan to build a modern palace as a fitting traditional seat for the people of Gomoa Assin Traditional Council. The Ghana Education Service's Director-General, Professor Ernest Kofi Davis, has expressed concerns about increasing indiscipline in schools, communities, and other institutions nationwide.

Central Regional Director of Education, Professor Juliet Dufie Otami, on behalf of Davis, called for traditional authorities to assist in addressing the issue of indiscipline and substance abuse among schoolchildren. She also urged parents, teachers, and community leaders to collaborate in fostering discipline, responsibility, and positive values in young individuals.

Gomoa Wassa's Gyaasehene, Nana Kwesi Essel Okyeahene, also appealed to the government and the Ghana Education Service to enhance infrastructure and the learning environment in public schools. He argued that making public schools more attractive and providing necessary facilities would improve teaching and learning, as well as encourage more parents to enroll their children in government schools.