Ghanaian authorities step up efforts against illegal mining amid health concerns for detained protesters

Ghanaian Authorities Oliver Barker-Vormawor, who was arrested over the weekend during a three-day protest against illegal mining, has been taken to the hospital for urgent medical care. His legal team stated that he fell seriously ill while in police custody and did not initially receive timely medical attention.

The Ghana Police Service, however, has disputed this claim, confirming that Mr. Vormawor and another detained protester are receiving treatment at a police hospital.

The protests, which were sparked by growing concerns over illegal gold mining, or “galamsey,” highlight the severe environmental and health impacts this activity is having across the country. Illegal mining has led to the contamination of over 60% of Ghana’s water bodies, forcing water companies to shut down treatment plants and ration water in certain areas. Experts warn that without immediate action, Ghana could face the prospect of importing water by 2030.

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President Nana Akufo-Addo has intensified efforts to combat illegal mining by deploying both police and military forces. This mirrors earlier attempts made in 2017, although many illegal miners have since shifted their operations to nighttime to evade detection.

Despite the arrests of more than 40 protesters, including Mr. Vormawor, the movement to protect Ghana’s water resources continues to gain support. Social media users have rallied behind the demonstrators using the hashtag #FreeTheCitizens, which has been trending as Ghanaians call for the release of the detained individuals.

Lawyers for the protesters have filed a petition with the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice, challenging the conditions of the protesters’ detention. Some protesters have alleged that they were denied food and water since their arrest, claims that the police have yet to address publicly. Prince Ganaku, a lawyer representing the protesters, expressed disappointment with the authorities’ actions, stating that the current treatment harkens back to a time when human rights were disregarded.

The protest movement stems from widespread concerns about the long-term damage illegal mining could cause to Ghana’s environment and water supply. While the crackdown continues, the activists remain focused on raising awareness and driving policy change to protect the nation’s natural resources.