The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has called on the Ghana Police Service to update the nation on ongoing investigations into recent attacks on journalists and officials engaged in the fight against illegal small-scale mining, known locally as galamsey.

Speaking at the 29th GJA Media Awards in Kumasi, the Association’s President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfuor, demanded that the Inspector General of Police (IGP) ensure that those responsible for such attacks are brought to justice without delay.

“The GJA demands that the Ghana Police Service brief the nation on the progress of investigations and leaves no stone unturned in identifying, arresting, and prosecuting all those responsible. We demand that briefing in the coming week, Mr. IGP,” he said.

Mr. Dwumfuor’s call follows a series of violent incidents targeting journalists and officials involved in anti-galamsey operations.

He cited recent reports by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) revealing that enforcement teams had come under armed attack while carrying out their mandate.

“Recently, during a briefing, I listened to the EPA boss recount how galamsey operators, aided by armed men in uniforms branded as CIDs, attacked enforcement teams with heavy weapons,” he noted.

The GJA President condemned the recent assault on the head of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Secretariat (NAIMOS), describing the act as a grave affront to the authority of the state and the rule of law.

“The GJA strongly condemns the cowardly attack on the NAIMOS boss. This act is not only a direct assault on the hardworking officers leading the fight against the destructive menace but also a grievous affront to the authority of the state and the rule of law,” he stated.

This year’s GJA Awards, themed “Safeguarding Ghana’s Future: The Role of the Media in Promoting Peace, Security and the Fight Against Galamsey,” reflect the Association’s renewed focus on the media’s responsibility in shaping national development and defending the public interest.

Mr. Dwumfuor said the theme was inspired by the pressing national challenges of peace, security, and environmental degradation, which the media must continue to highlight and address.

“We believe the media will make the necessary impact to safeguard the future of Ghana,” he said, reaffirming the GJA’s commitment to responsible journalism and advocacy for justice.

The 29th GJA Media Awards celebrate excellence in journalism, recognizing professionals who demonstrate courage, integrity, and innovation in their work, particularly in areas that promote national development and environmental protection.