Illegal small-scale mining, popularly known as 'galamsey,' is taking place behind a police station at Anyinam, in the Atiwa East District.

According to the Chief Executive of the Minerals Commission, Martin Ayisi, several reports made to the police have resulted in no action.

Mr Ayisi made this revelation while appearing before the Parliament's Government Assurances Committee today.

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“We have reported severally that behind the Anyinam police station, people are doing some down there which we have not permitted.

Mr Ayisi was worried, "How come the police are not taking action?”

The Minerals Commission boss is, however, opposed to calls to stop issuing new mining licenses.

He added that if they are not issued, the people will go and do illegal mining anyway.

Meanwhile, Mr Ayisis has denied claims of being understaffed.

He insisted that the commission has sufficient funds to acquire the necessary logistics and human resources to carry out its inspectorate duties.

But the Chairman of the committee, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa is of a different view.

He believes everything the Minerals Commission CEO has said is the very reason why small-scale mining and the grant of licensing are suspended.