Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has reiterated a stern warning to potential miners, emphasising that engaging in mining activities within forest reserves and water bodies will be a deadly business.

Speaking at the passing-out ceremony of Blue Water Guards, the Minister highlighted the government's commitment to protecting the country's natural resources.

The Minister also reminded the newly recruits that they are bound by a strict code of conduct, which demands the highest levels of professionalism and integrity.

“Remember you have signed a code of conduct, a binding commitment to professionalism and integrity. Any breach of this code, any compromise in your duties, will attract stiffer sanctions,” Mr Buah stated.

He urged officers and actors within the mining sector to uphold ethical standards and ensure their conduct reflects the national interest, especially with regard to environmental conservation.

“Please make sure you know that at all times, you are to exhibit the highest levels of integrity on a daily basis. The task before you is sacred. The future of our water bodies depends on your discipline and vigilance—thus the army has emphasised,” he added.

Mr Buah further cautioned that the era of leniency is over, making it clear that future offenders will face severe consequences.

“Going forward, any attempt to mine gold in our forest reserves and our water bodies will be a deadly business,” he noted.