Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, has disclosed that some police officers are allegedly receiving bribes ranging from GH₵2,000 to GH₵3,000 from illegal miners, known locally as galamseyers.

Speaking at a meeting with police leadership in Tarkwa on Thursday, April 17, Mr Nelson expressed deep concern over the growing allegations of bribery among officers in the fight against illegal mining in the Western Region.

“When I hear that some of you are compromised in the fight against galamsey, I’m saddened. Just this evening, someone called me to complain that some officers are accepting bribes, ranging from GH₵2,000 to GH₵3,000. Whilst money is important, it’s more fulfilling when earned honestly,” he said.

He bemoaned the devastating impact of illegal mining on the environment, warning that food security, water bodies, and livelihoods are all under threat. According to the Minister, the consequences of galamsey will be felt by all, regardless of social status or location.

“Some might think, if water bodies are destroyed, we can afford bottled water. But that’s an unfortunate mindset. Galamsey’s consequences will ultimately affect us all, and we’re already seeing its negative impact on our health and lives,” he stated.

The Minister urged the Western Central Police Command of the Ghana Police Service to rededicate themselves to the galamsey fight, urging officers to act with integrity and uphold their professional duty.

"On galamsey, there’s a lot to be done. As Regional Minister, I have heard both the good and the bad. While I have commended your efforts, I need to highlight the negative aspects, especially regarding the fight against galamsey," he noted.

"Our environment is being destroyed in the name of finding gold and making money, putting lives at risk," Mr Nelson added.

He stressed that the battle against illegal mining must be pursued with national interest at heart and not influenced by the financial enticements of illegal operators.

He cautioned that reports of uniformed officers accepting bribes from galamseyers and their financiers continue to undermine the state’s efforts to halt the destruction of the environment.

“As leaders, we must care about the areas affected by galamsey, even if we don’t live there. The question is: should we prioritise short-term gains over long-term sustainability and the well-being of our communities?” he queried.

As Chairman of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) overseeing both the Western and Western Central commands, the Minister vowed to lead the charge against illegal mining with firmness.

He urged the police to remain professional and act without waiting for directives, warning that failure to act decisively would worsen the current crisis.

Mr Nelson also called on the general public to support government’s efforts to rid the country of illegal mining, emphasizing the far-reaching consequences the menace poses to Ghana’s future.