There is a growing public outcry for the government to declare a state of emergency on small-scale and illegal mining—popularly known as galamsey—following the tragic deaths of eight high-ranking government and military officials in the August 6 helicopter crash en route to Obuasi.
The deceased officials, including the Minister for Defence, the Minister for Environment, and senior security operatives, were reportedly on their way to coordinate an intensified crackdown on galamsey operations in the Ashanti Region when the disaster occurred.
Critics argue that the illegal mining menace has reached catastrophic proportions—devastating water bodies, ravaging farmlands, threatening public health, and now, indirectly, claiming the lives of some of the nation’s most influential leaders.
“This is no longer an environmental issue alone—it is a national security emergency,” said one political commentator. “If the government is serious, it must declare a state of emergency immediately to confront this scourge with the urgency and resources it demands.”
Environmental groups, civil society organizations, and local chiefs have long warned that unchecked illegal mining could cripple Ghana’s ecosystem and economy. The recent tragedy, they say, should be the final wake-up call.
