The National Coordinator of the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuye, has dismissed claims that DRIP machines allocated to Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) are being used for illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey.

According to him, there is currently no evidence to support allegations that the road construction equipment has been diverted for illegal mining operations anywhere in the country.

Speaking in an interview with Samuel Nana Tawiah during an inspection tour of DRIP machines across several districts and municipalities, Mr. Vanderpuye urged the public to report any assembly or individual found using the machines for illegal mining to the police or the appropriate authorities.

“I have not seen any evidence that DRIP machines are being used for galamsey. However, if anyone comes across such an incident, they should quickly report it to the police or the appropriate authorities,” he said.

He stressed that the machines were procured solely for road construction and maintenance projects aimed at improving roads within communities and not for private business activities.

Mr. Vanderpuye also warned assembly officials and machine operators against renting out the equipment, stating that the machines are not meant for hire or commercial use.

According to him, anyone found renting out the DRIP machines for personal gain or illegal activities would face sanctions, including dismissal and possible prosecution.

“Any person caught renting out these machines will be fired and prosecuted because the machines belong to the state and are meant to serve the people,” he warned.

He explained that his nationwide inspection tour is intended to assess the condition and proper use of the machines to ensure they are serving their intended purpose of improving road infrastructure across the country.

The DRIP initiative forms part of the government’s efforts to improve road maintenance and support development in local communi