The President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, has called on national security agencies to take decisive action against politicians and traditional leaders involved in illegal mining, warning that they are central to the country’s deepening galamsey crisis.
Speaking during a meeting with the National Security Coordinator on Friday, August 1, 2025, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II alleged that many individuals arrested for illegal mining often claim they are acting under the protection of powerful political figures.
“We must all be part of the fight against galamsey and the destruction of our water bodies. The truth is, when these illegal miners are arrested, they often say, ‘we’re from Jubilee House’,” he stated bluntly.
He stressed that the issue has persisted across multiple governments and is not limited to any single administration.
“It didn’t start today. It began under the previous government and has continued under the current one. We need a united front to tackle it. Those arrested must be punished to send a strong message,” he urged.
Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II also condemned the involvement of some chiefs in illegal mining operations and called on traditional leaders to lead by example and withdraw from any such activities.
“Some of our own chiefs are involved. It must stop. We cannot protect our lands and rivers while enabling their destruction,” he said.
His remarks come amid growing concerns about the environmental toll of illegal mining and calls for stronger enforcement and accountability at the highest levels.
