Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, John Peter Amewu has said all earth moving equipment will henceforth operate with permits in the country.
Speaking on Anopa Kasapa on Kasapa 102.5 FM, Mr. Amewu said excavators found on various concession without permit will be confiscated.
“Going forward excavators are just not going to come and work on site without permit. Excavators will need to be authorized. And any excavator that will be authorized to go into a mining site would be tracked as you come in for your authorization. So if you are an owner of excavator you need to apply for permit or authorization to engage in a mining site.”
The Akufo-Addo administration since taking over in January has been on a war-path with galamsey operators.
A directive went into effect in March ordering illegal miners to leave their concession within a three week ultimatum and submit to government oversight to formalize their operations pursuant to mining standards in the sector.
Mr. Amewu reiterates that government is aggressive on streamlining the process to grant permits for legal mines.
“The NPP administration is not anti-mining government but we want to engage mining in a more sustainable and environmental friendly manner. And anybody that is ready to do that is welcome.”
