The Convenor of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining, Ing. Kenneth Ashigbey, has raised concerns over possible security lapses at Ghana’s ports following the importation of 14 containers loaded with changfang machines used for illegal mining.

According to him, the successful entry of the prohibited equipment into the country points to weaknesses in port monitoring and regulatory enforcement, warning that authorities must act urgently to prevent further environmental destruction.

Speaking on JoyNews' The Pulse on Tuesday, February 17, Ing. Ashigbey questioned how the machines were cleared and transported without detection, despite existing regulations governing the importation of mining equipment.

“Even excavators require clearance before they are shipped into the country. So how were these changfang machines brought into Ghana and allowed to pass through the port?” he asked.

He stressed that illegal mining, widely known as galamsey, continues to devastate water bodies, farmlands, and communities, and warned that failure to tighten port controls would worsen the situation.

Mr Ashigbey called on authorities to trace those behind the importation and deal with the issue at its source.

“If we want to stop it, let’s stop it at the ports. Don’t let it come into the system,” he said.

He also commended the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for intercepting the containers at the Tema Port but insisted that more action is needed to identify the importers and strengthen intelligence systems.

The Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining has been at the forefront of advocacy against illegal mining, pushing for stricter enforcement and accountability to protect Ghana’s environment and natural resources.