The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources is on the verge of concluding its investigation into allegations that the Amansie Central District Assembly has been systematically levying illegal miners, with an official statement expected by the end of the week.
Paa Kwesi Schandorf, the Media Relations Officer at the Ministry, confirmed that the probe is at an advanced stage. Appearing on JoyNews’ News Desk programme, he stated that authorities have completed a thorough review of the response submitted by the district assembly in question.
According to Mr. Schandorf, the assembly has defended its actions by asserting that the charges in question are not new but have been in place for several years. However, he highlighted a key concern raised by the investigative findings: the decision by assembly officials to engage in financial transactions with individuals who explicitly presented themselves as illegal miners.
“Even if these levies are longstanding, the critical issue remains the principle of conducting business with persons who openly admitted to operating outside the law,” Mr. Schandorf stated.
The investigation was triggered by an undercover documentary titled A Tax for Galamsey, produced by JoyNews. The piece alleges that illegal mining in the district has become a structured, revenue-generating system. It claims that operators are required to pay fixed fees—including GH¢3,000 per changfan machine and significantly higher sums for excavators—to local authorities.
The report further alleges that these payments are formalized with official receipts, stickers, and bank deposits made directly into assembly accounts, effectively integrating unlawful activities into the district’s revenue stream.
Mr. Schandorf emphasized that the Ministry’s findings could have implications beyond the Amansie Central District. He noted that similar charges might be in place in other districts, suggesting the potential for a broader review of local assembly practices regarding mining revenues.
The Ministry is expected to finalize the investigation by the end of the week, after which a detailed public announcement will be made regarding any sanctions and corrective measures to be implemented.
