UTAG Condemns Attack on NAIMOS, Decries Political Influence in Galamsey Fight
University lecturers condemn NAIMOS attack, blame political interference and elite impunity for Ghana’s worsening illegal mining crisis
- UTAG condemns alleged MP-led attack on anti-galamsey task force in Hwidiem
- Association blames political interference and elite impunity for illegal mining failures
- Calls for independent investigation and stronger national unity in the fight against galamsey
The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has condemned the violent attack on the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), allegedly orchestrated by the Member of Parliament for Asutifi North, Ebenezer Kwaku Addo, describing it as a serious threat to the rule of law and the national fight against illegal mining.
According to police accounts, chaos erupted when the NAIMOS task force attempted to hand over arrested illegal miners to the Hwidiem Police Station after an operation. The MP allegedly arrived at the scene with supporters demanding the suspects’ release. When officers refused, the group reportedly chased the NAIMOS team away. Later, a mob of about 600 people stormed the police station, insisting that the arrested miners be freed.
In a statement issued in Accra and signed by UTAG National President, Prof. Vera O. Fiador, and National Secretary, Dr. Samuel Kingsford Seglah, the Association described the incident as “an affront to justice and a betrayal of the national interest.”
UTAG lamented that such lawlessness could be linked to a public official, saying it reflected “the deep-rooted political interference, impunity, and elite complicity that have crippled the nation’s anti-galamsey efforts.”
The Association warned that illegal mining continues to devastate Ghana’s rivers, forests, and farmlands — destroying livelihoods, food security, and public health — and called on all leaders to treat the crisis as a national emergency.
UTAG demanded a transparent and independent probe into the attack and the alleged unlawful release of the detained miners, stressing that “justice must be served without fear or favour.”
Reaffirming its commitment to the anti-galamsey campaign, UTAG noted that it is mobilising over 7,000 lecturers and researchers nationwide to advance environmental restoration and promote responsible governance.
“The fight against galamsey is not a partisan issue but a moral obligation to safeguard Ghana’s future,” the statement concluded, urging political and traditional leaders to rise above party lines and act decisively to protect the environment.
