The Bono Regional Minister, Joseph Addae Akwaboa has ordered chiefs and residents to arrest anyone using the names of government appointees to engage in illegal mining.

Speaking during an accounting-to-the-people tour in Berekum West District, Akwaboa said the government is intensifying the fight against galamsey and no one will be spared, adomonline.com reported on May 14, 2026.

He urged community members to remain vigilant and hand over to police anyone claiming to operate under his instruction or that of any other government official.

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“Illegal mining continues to pose serious threats to the environment, water bodies, and farmlands, making decisive action necessary,” he said.

Security agencies have been directed to clamp down on all illegal mining operations in the region to protect natural resources for future generations.

Akwaboa warned residents against individuals who may use his name or other officials’ names to carry out galamsey.

The minister also vowed action against contractors who take payment for government projects but fail to execute them.

“Any contractor who receives payment for a government project but fails to execute the work will be made to face the full rigours of the law,” he said.

He cited the case of Kofi Akpaloo, who was allegedly awarded a contract for a five-kilometre road in Berekum West but failed to execute it after receiving payment.

Akwaboa said EOCO is handling the matter and legal action will soon be taken.

NAD/AM

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