By Ashiadey Dotse
Justice Scott Puamang has announced that the Judiciary has designated three High Courts to exclusively handle illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, cases across the country.
The Supreme Court Justice made the disclosure on Wednesday, December 17, while speaking at the Annual Chief Justice’s Mentoring Programme. He explained that the specialised courts will focus mainly on cases linked to the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS).
According to Justice Puamang, the initiative demonstrates the Judiciary’s strong commitment to combating illegal mining and protecting the environment. He said three High Court judges have already been assigned, and their courts are currently being refurbished to handle galamsey-related cases, as well as other state matters.
He added that the courts are expected to begin operations early next year and will also help in recovering state properties lost through illegal mining activities.
Speaking on the theme, “Advocating greener, sustainable justice: the environment and justice,” Justice Puamang encouraged young people to develop an interest in judicial careers and to uphold justice-driven values.
At the same programme, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, reaffirmed the government’s determination to end illegal mining. He disclosed that the tracking of imported earth-moving equipment has led to the seizure of more than 1,000 excavators, which are currently being held by the ministry.
The government says these measures form part of wider efforts to protect Ghana’s natural resources and strengthen the fight against illegal mining.
