'What if I'm killed?' - Dr Hanna Bisiw-Kotei explains covert anti-galamsey operations
Dr Hanna Louisa Bisiw-Kotei addressing the media during one of her anti-galamsey operations
The Administrator of the Minerals Development Fund (MDF), Dr Hanna Louisa Bisiw-Kotei, has shed light on the highly discreet nature of her office's operations during raids on illegal mining ("galamsey") sites across the country.
Speaking in an interview with Adom FM on June 30, 2025, Dr Bisiw-Kotei revealed that intelligence gathered for these operations, and the operations themselves, are known exclusively to her.
She stressed that she does not disclose sensitive information, not even to sector ministers, particularly those for the interior and defense, until after the operations have concluded.
"The Minerals Development Fund operates under its own Act, which I adhere to, and I’m sure everyone is aware if I execute my duties because it’s not a secret operation. I will not inform anyone [sector ministers] about my movements," she explained.
"I will not tell anybody until I finish. Why should I share sensitive information that could be unintentionally leaked? What if they [illegal miners] lay ambush and kill me? They are only aware after the operation is done. Once I’ve gathered intelligence, I do not disclose it to anyone, not even to the team I conduct the operations with," she added.
Dr Bisiw-Kotei further stressed that her duties are executed strictly in accordance with the Minerals Development Fund Act, refuting any claims of acting beyond her jurisdiction.
Her remarks follow a recent anti-galamsey operation she led on June 28, 2025, in Atatam, Ashanti Region, acting on intelligence.
The operation resulted in the arrest of five suspects, including four Chinese nationals, and the seizure of illegal mining equipment, including nine excavators and other pumping machines.
The illegal miners were apprehended near the Atatam D/A Basic School, which they had reportedly threatened to destroy.
Watch her interview below:
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