The fight against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, continues to stir controversy as stakeholders express differing opinions on the best approach to protect the environment.

Speaking on the Oman Ghana Nkosuo show on Accra-based CTV hosted by Obaapa Yaa Titi on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, Director of Operations for Movement for Change, Hopeson Adoye, admitted that mining in itself is not a bad practice but stressed that the real issue lies in how the activity is carried out.

According to him, gold and other minerals are important resources that the country needs, but the methods employed by illegal miners are causing severe harm to the environment.

Mr Adoye revealed that several influential and reputable individuals are allegedly involved in illegal mining operations, making the fight against galamsey more challenging.

He therefore called for all excavators to be removed from unauthorised mining sites to prevent further destruction of lands and water bodies.

He further urged the government to put in place strong regulatory measures to manage mining activities across the country.

Mr Adoye emphasised that institutions such as the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat(NAiMOS) should adopt what he described as “military tactics” in their operations.

According to him, radical enforcement measures, including corporal punishments such as physical discipline, could serve as a deterrent to those engaged in illegal mining.

He argued that diplomatic or lenient approaches may not produce the desired results in the ongoing fight against galamsey.