The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, revealed the shocking operations of what he described as a “well-organized criminal syndicate” led by Akonta Mining Company Ltd.
Addressing a room full of journalists, Buah detailed how Akonta Mining, allegedly owned by Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has been engaging in unauthorized mining activities within the protected forest reserve.
According to the minister, an undercover investigation uncovered the company’s systematic operations, which included selling concessions in the forest for as much as GH₵300,000 each to illegal miners.
In return, Akonta reportedly collected weekly royalties of 250 grams of gold from these miners, all while operating in direct violation of Ghana’s mining laws.
The minister was reportedly overcome with emotion after watching a documentary that showcased the devastating effects of Akonta Mining’s operations on the Western Region’s lands and water bodies.
“The destruction is heartbreaking,” Buah said, his voice trembling. “Our forests, our rivers—they are being destroyed, and we cannot sit idly by while this happens.”
The press conference comes on the heels of coordinated raids conducted by the Ghana Police Service and the Forestry Commission on April 17, 2025.
The operation targeted six illegal mining sites linked to Akonta Mining in the Western North Region, seizing equipment and exposing the scale of the environmental damage.
READ ALSO: “107 foreigners involved in galamsey deported since l became minister” – Says Hon. Muntaka
Buah’s directive to the Minerals Commission to immediately revoke Akonta Mining’s lease signals a firm stance by the government under President John Dramani Mahama, who has vowed to combat galamsey and preserve Ghana’s natural resources.
The minister also called for investigations into forestry and security officials suspected of aiding the illegal operations, emphasizing accountability at all levels.
