AROCHA Ghana, an environmental conservation organization in collaboration with other environmental NGOs, has demanded the removal of the Eastern South Police Commander, DCOP George Boadi Bossman, and the Divisional Police Commander of Kyebi, ACP Reynolds Sam, in the Eastern Region over their alleged failure to tackle illegal mining.

According to the group, despite collaborative efforts, water bodies continue to be destroyed due to the officers’ inability to combat illegal mining activities effectively.

At a press conference in Accra on Friday, March 7, AROCHA’s Deputy National Director, Daryl Bosu, called for the immediate removal of both commanders.

“The failure to effectively enforce laws against illegal mining in parts of the Eastern Region is a clear indication of poor leadership and complicity by both the Divisional and Eastern South commands, located in Kyebi. Civil society organizations (CSOs) have struggled without success to stop the pollution of River Danso, River Birim, and other streams in the region.

“We are therefore calling for more proactive law enforcement and effective leadership. We demand the replacement of Eastern South Police Commander DCOP George Boadi Bossman and ACP Reynolds Sam with dedicated officers who will prioritize the enforcement of mineral and mining regulations and halt the escalating impunity.”

Furthermore, the group also sought the replacement of the Executive Director of the Minerals Commission, citing his failure to effectively combat illegal mining.

“The current leader of the Minerals Commission has failed to ensure responsible mining practices that safeguard the environment across the country.

“We call on the government to, as a matter of urgency, replace the Executive Director of the Minerals Commission with a visionary leader who will usher in a new era of responsible mining.”