The Ashanti Regional Minister has given a stern two-week ultimatum to individuals engaged in illegal mining in forests and waterways, warning them to vacate these areas or face the full force of the law.

Dr Frank Amoakohene reaffirmed his commitment to protecting the region’s natural resources and fully supporting President John Mahama’s vision of promoting responsible mining.

“Anyone in the forest reserve mining should vacate those places. We are giving them up to two weeks. If you are mining within the forest reserves and you don’t want to be on the bad side of the law, you have two weeks to leave the place,” he declared.

The Minister further revealed plans to rid water bodies of mining activities, stating that his administration is fully prepared to act.

“If you have any investment in the water bodies, polluting the water bodies, you have two weeks to leave. We will send out a team to make sure we restore normalcy within the mining sector,” he warned.

The Ashanti Region has been one of the hardest-hit areas by illegal mining, with forests and rivers continuously under threat despite previous government interventions.

Dr. Amoakohene assured that his administration is committed to enforcing a comprehensive strategy to combat illegal mining effectively.

“I am working with other Regional Ministers who equally share tributaries of river bodies with us so we can be holistic with our approach to the fight,” he stated.

Illegal mining has left numerous pits abandoned in mining communities, posing grave environmental and safety risks. The Environmental Protection Authority has already begun enforcement actions, seizing mining equipment from illegal operations.

Meanwhile, Dr Amoakohene addressed the recent violent clash between the military and illegal miners in Obuasi, which resulted in nine deaths.

He assured that investigations are ongoing to ensure accountability and justice.

“Not long ago, nine lives were lost due to a clash between the military and illegal miners. The President issued a white paper, demanding investigations to be conducted into the matter. This will help us protect the people of the area,” he stated.