Private legal practitioner Kwesi Botchway Jnr has formally written to the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, requesting an update on the status of investigations into alleged illegal mining activities linked to some known persons referred to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

In a letter dated 17th December 2025, Mr Botchway asked for clarity on the progress of the investigations, any interim findings submitted to the Attorney-General’s Office, and the expected timelines for the completion of the probes.

The request follows a public directive issued by the Attorney-General on 15th July 2025, instructing EOCO to institute investigations into suspected illegal mining activities in various mining districts across the country.

The directive, issued pursuant to EOCO’s mandate under the EOCO Act, 2010 (Act 804), also called for the interrogation of individuals named in what were described as credible reports, including Yakubu Abanga and Joseph Yamin.

Joseph Yamin is the NDC's National Organiser, whereas Yakubu Abanga serves as a
National Vice Chairman of the party.

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The scope of the investigations further extends to matters arising from the Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng report, which has featured prominently in public discourse on illegal mining and environmental degradation.

Mr Botchway said his request was motivated by growing public concern, reinforced by media reports and intelligence, over the involvement of some citizens in unauthorised mining operations.

He noted that such activities are in contravention of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), as amended by Act 995.

He stressed that illegal mining continues to pose a grave threat to water bodies, forest reserves and local livelihoods, underscoring the need for transparency and accountability in the handling of the investigations.

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"These activities not only flout our mining regulations but also gravely endanger our water bodies, forest reserves, and local livelihoods.”

According to the lawyer, the request was made in good faith and in the public interest, to strengthen public confidence in the state’s ongoing efforts to combat galamsey. "This request is made in good faith and in the interest of transparency, public accountability, and strengthening public confidence in the national fight against illegal mining."

The Attorney-General’s Office is yet to publicly respond to the request.