Galamsey has evolved into transnational organised crime – Prof. Appiagyei-Tua

Professor Kwadwo Appiagyei-Tua, an international law and human rights expert at the University of Ghana School of Law, has warned that illegal mining in Ghana has transformed into a form of transnational organized crime driven by profit, coercion, violence, and corruption. In an interview on JoyNews’ Newsfile, he emphasized that the menace has extended beyond individual miners and now encompasses networks of influential individuals, including political figures.

According to Prof. Appiagyei-Tua, the scale and organization of illegal mining indicate a well-coordinated criminal enterprise involving collaboration among various stakeholders. He explained that the activities have expanded beyond miners working at illegal mining sites to include networks with political actors and other collaborators who enable the illicit trade. The profit-driven nature of these operations, combined with coercion, violence, and corruption, complicates efforts to combat galamsey.

Prof. Appiagyei-Tua expressed deep concern over the situation, stating that it is crucial to recognize galamsey as a transnational organized crime. He highlighted that this crime aims to generate profits through coercion, violence, and corruption, and has been facilitated by networks involving not only criminal actors but also political appointees and the government in power.