The Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, has officially instructed the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to launch investigations into suspected illegal mining activities allegedly perpetrated by specific individuals within Ghana’s mining districts.
The directive cites mounting public concern and corroborated media reports pointing to unauthorized mining operations that breach the Minerals and Mining Act and related regulations. The Attorney General emphasized that these activities not only contravene legal provisions but also severely threaten water bodies, forest reserves, and local livelihoods.
According to the letter, Yakubu Abanga and Joseph Yamin have been named in credible reports requiring interrogation. EOCO has been tasked to investigate their involvement as well as any other persons potentially complicit in these unlawful activities. The scope of the investigation will include issues raised in Prof. Frimpong Boateng’s report on illegal mining.
The Attorney General also encouraged EOCO to work closely with the Minerals Commission, inviting its Chief Executive Officer to assist with the investigations.
