By Yvonne Atilego
The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has vowed to see to the prosecution of all foreigners and indigenes engaged in illegal mining to serve as a deterrent to others.
According to him, he has the backing of the President in this fight, so nobody will be spared.
Speaking at a media briefing in Accra, Mr. Jinapor admitted that the fight against illegal small-scale mining is tough. However, government will not relent in its efforts to curb the menace. So far, 187 illegal miners have been sentenced in the Eastern Region alone, with 280 more standing trial across the country.
The Minister also announced a new licencing regime for small-scale miners. This new regime will put Chiefs at the centre of processes leading to granting of concessions.
Meanwhile, the Ministry has launched Operation Halt Two, which according to Mr. Jinapor, is one of the relentless fights to deal with illegal mining. The Ministry is also revamping Community Mining Schemes in the country, which will provide 80 thousand people with alternative livelihood schemes.
