The Minister for Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, has announced that the second batch of Blue Water Guards, currently undergoing training under the Ghana Navy, is expected to pass out this week as part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining in the country.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Monday, Dr Boamah revealed that over 500 guards are currently completing their training, following the successful graduation of the first batch of more than 400 personnel earlier this year.

"A second batch, made up of 532 personnel, commenced training last month and is scheduled to graduate this week," he disclosed.

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The Blue Water Guard, recently established under the national security framework, operates in collaboration with the Ghana Navy and, Lands and Natural Resources Ministry.

The specialised unit is tasked with protecting water bodies from the destructive activities of illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey.

Dr Boamah commended the Ghana Navy for its dedication to the training programme, noting that its involvement underscores the security sector’s commitment to supporting the government’s broader environmental and anti-galamsey agenda.

"The training of the guards reflects Ghana Navy's commitment to operationalising the government's initiative of ensuring that all mining activities in Ghana leave a positive green footprint and not to pollute water bodies."