The Berekumman Citizens Association, comprising natives of Berekum living both in Ghana and abroad, has issued an urgent call to the Berekum Traditional Council to take immediate action to halt illegal mining activities (known locally as galamsey) in the Benkasa community.

In a letter dated October 29, 2025, and addressed to the President of the Berekum Traditional Council, the association expressed deep concern over the destructive impact of the unlawful mining operations on the environment, public health, and local livelihoods.

According to the statement issued and signed by Sir Prof D. Obeng Ofori, Chairman of the association said, "trusted community reports have confirmed that illegal miners are actively operating in Benkasa, leading to widespread pollution of streams and farmlands, the destruction of sacred and communal lands, and growing threats to food security and public safety."

While acknowledging the efforts of the District Chief Executive (DCE) and the Member of Parliament (MP) for Berekum West in addressing the situation, the association emphasized that “the extraordinary customary influence and authority of the Berekum Traditional Council are essential to stop the activity quickly and prevent escalation.”

The group has therefore appealed to the Traditional Council to:
1. Issue a customary proclamation banning illegal mining in Benkasa and across all Berekum communities.
2. Apply traditional sanctions against anyone found to be involved or complicit in the activity.
3. Convene an urgent joint meeting with key stakeholders — including the DCE, MP, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Minerals Commission, Police, and local representatives — within 14 days to review evidence and agree on immediate enforcement measures.
4. Collaborate with statutory agencies to dismantle illegal mining operations and prevent their recurrence.
5. Authorize representatives of the Traditional Council to accompany enforcement teams during inspection exercises.

Sir Prof. D. Obeng Ofori, expressed the association's readiness to support lawful interventions by sharing evidence, organizing community meetings and mobilizing members of the Berekum diaspora for advocacy and monitoring.

“We firmly oppose any form of vigilantism or unlawful retaliation; our aim is to secure immediate, lawful, and sustainable action that protects our people and land,” the statement noted.

The letter concludes with a request for a written response from the Traditional Council within seven days, outlining the steps it intends to take and confirming the date for the proposed stakeholder meeting.

The Berekum Citizens Association says it remains committed to partnering with traditional and statutory authorities to safeguard the environment and ensure that the future of Berekum remains secure for generations to come.

BELOW IS THE FULL STATEMENT

Sompaonline.com/Derrick Djan