The Offinso South Directorate of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has dismissed reports alleging illegal mining (galamsey) activities in Dumansua, clarifying that the operations in question are legitimate quarry works.
Speaking after a site inspection, the NADMO Director for Offinso South, Hon. Wiafe Mohammed, stated that investigations revealed the area is being used for licensed quarry activities, not illegal mining as widely speculated.
According to him, the presence of heavy-duty trucks transporting sand from the site may have contributed to the misunderstanding among residents and the general public. He stressed that quarrying is a regulated and lawful activity, distinct from galamsey, which is illegal and often associated with severe environmental degradation.
“The team visited the site following reports and viral images circulating on social media. Our findings confirm that the operations are those of a quarry company duly licensed by the Minerals Commission of Ghana,” he explained.
Hon. Wiafe Mohammed further noted that the company operating at the site has fulfilled key regulatory requirements, including securing the necessary permits and compensating members of the affected community.
He urged the public to exercise caution and verify information before making allegations that could damage reputations and create unnecessary tension.
While affirming the legitimacy of the quarry operations, the NADMO Director appealed to the company to honour its commitment to the community, particularly the construction of a footbridge to improve accessibility and safety for residents.
He also emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration between the company and the local community to ensure peaceful coexistence and promote sustainable development in the area.
Meanwhile, the Forestry Commission in Offinso has also refuted claims of illegal mining activities in Dumansua. The Commission stated that routine monitoring and recent checks found no evidence to support the allegations.
A representative of the Commission indicated that although reports and visuals circulating on social media prompted further investigation, no signs of galamsey were detected within their operational scope.
The Commission, however, noted that regulatory oversight of mining activities falls primarily under the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Minerals Commission. It therefore directed further inquiries to the appropriate institutions.
The clarification by both NADMO and the Forestry Commission comes amid growing public concern over the environmental impact of mining activities across parts of the country.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to safeguarding natural resources and encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activities through the appropriate channels for prompt investigation.
