The Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners at Amansie South in the Ashanti Region says the anti-galamsey taskforce’s presence and what they term ‘Rambo-style’ approach is scaring students in the enclave away from classrooms.

According to the Association, the modus operandi of the security taskforce is not community-friendly, especially on the children in the area.

Addressing the media, the association said they are in support of the government’s fight against galamsey but advised that the taskforce uses a different approach in combating the illegal mining menace.

“When the children hear the sound of the gunshot and the machomen harassing people, they choose not to come out,” said Kwaku Abone, Chairman of the Amansie South Small-Scale Mining Association.

He said they are ready to support the government in identifying illegal miners and arrest them without putting fear in children.

“Aside from that, the taskforce also harasses some licensed small-scale miners which most of their excavators and equipment are burnt,” he added.

Some teachers who spoke to Adom News also confirmed that attendance of students has reduced and called on Ghana education services and Ministry of education to intervene.

“We all support the fight against galamsey because all our land and water bodies are destroyed by these illegalities, but the taskforce approach is now affecting education too,” they said.