The Bono Regional Minister, Joseph Addae Akwaboa, has warned illegal miners in the region to stop their activities or prepare to spend a minimum of 10 years in jail.

He said the region was determined to clamp down on them, saying any offender who would be apprehended would be prosecuted accordingly.

Mr Akwaboa implored everybody to support the government to protect the nation’s natural resources for the unborn generation.

He said, “Our forefathers safeguard these resources for us, and we must also make frantic efforts to protect them for future generations”.

Mr Akwaboa gave the warning when addressing the Banda District Assembly on the confirmation of the President Nominee, Mr Peter Dongi, as the Banda District Chief Executive at Banda-Ahenkro in the region.

The 19-member Assembly endorsed the President nominee by voting 100 per cent ‘yes’ in an election conducted and supervised by the Electoral Commission.

Mr Akwaboa said the region was determined to protect the natural resources, calling for collective efforts to stem illegal mining activities.

“In fact, if apprehended individuals engaged in that harmful practice will face severe consequences,” he stated.

Mr Akwaboa urged the Chiefs, Queens and community members to support the government’s efforts in combating the menace.

He said numerous opportunities were available for the teeming unemployed youth under President John Dramani Mahama’s government and urged young people to capitalise on that to get decent jobs.

He said galamsey was causing significant harm to the Bui Generating Station and asked the DCE to work closely with the Assembly Members to help tackle the menace and facilitate the speedy development of the district.