Attorney General Orders EOCO to Probe Illegal Mining Allegations Involving Key Figures

Ghana’s Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, has directed the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to launch investigations into suspected illegal mining activities by certain individuals operating within the country’s mining districts.

In a strongly worded letter, Dr. Ayine cited mounting public concern, media reports, and intelligence indicating that some citizens are engaging in unauthorized mining, popularly known as galamsey, in direct contravention of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703). These illegal operations, he warned, are not only flouting mining laws but are also devastating Ghana’s water bodies, forests, and local livelihoods.

The directive singles out Mr. Yakubu Abanga and Mr. Joseph Yamin, who have been mentioned in recent credible reports and are to be interrogated. EOCO was also tasked with probing any other individuals or groups found to be complicit. The scope of the investigation is expected to draw on findings from the Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng report on illegal mining.

“This is not just about law enforcement, it’s about saving Ghana’s environment and protecting the futures of communities whose water, farms, and forests are being destroyed,” a source close to the Ministry said.

Involving the Minerals Commission, the Attorney-General advised EOCO to work with the Commission’s Chief Executive Officer in uncovering the full extent of the alleged unlawful mining networks.

The directive reinforces President John Mahama’s renewed commitment to clamp down on illegal mining and sanitize Ghana’s extractive sector. With widespread concerns about the impact of galamsey on agriculture, drinking water, and health, this move signals a decisive push to hold all involved accountable.

EOCO is expected to act swiftly, with the Attorney-General emphasizing the urgency and gravity of the matter, pledging that the rule of law will be upheld to safeguard the country’s natural resources for future generations.