The National Investigations Bureau (NIB) has launched an investigation into individuals who are allegedly using the names of government officials to extort money from small-scale miners.
Dr. Frank Amoakohene, Head of the Ashanti Regional Security Council, confirmed that his office has received multiple complaints from government officials regarding the misuse of their names for extortion purposes. He stated that several cases have been referred to the NIB for further investigation to apprehend those responsible.
“I receive concerns from people in higher positions about individuals using their names. I’ve referred some of these cases to the NIB to investigate and ensure the perpetrators are caught,” Dr. Amoakohene said.
The issue came to light during a meeting between the Concerned National Small-Scale Miners Association and the Ashanti Regional Minister, focused on addressing illegal mining and promoting a sustainable mining environment.
Miners present at the meeting expressed their frustration over extortion attempts by people claiming to fight illegal mining. In response, Dr. Amoakohene assured them that measures were in place to combat such practices, especially in the fight against illegal mining.
“I am committed to rooting out influence peddling, particularly within the illegal mining sector,” he added, urging small-scale miners to cooperate with investigations and report anyone making such demands.
The Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council, alongside a task force of security personnel and enforcement agencies, has been actively involved in tackling illegal mining. The task force has already succeeded in reclaiming some forests that were previously occupied by illegal miners.
Dr. Amoakohene reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the fight against galamsey, emphasizing that the president’s directives to protect forests, water bodies, and roadsides from illegal mining will continue to be enforced.
“The President has made it clear: no mining in forests, no mining near roadsides or water bodies. We are ready to provide further support to ensure that we do what is right,” he stated.
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