Kwadwo Appiagyei-Tua labels galamsey as transnational organized crime

Professor Kwadwo Appiagyei-Tua from the University of Ghana School of Law has characterized illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, as a sophisticated form of transnational organized crime. Speaking on JoyNews' Newsfile, the legal scholar argued that the activity has evolved far beyond the actions of individual artisanal miners. Instead, it now functions as a complex network sustained by significant financial profits, systematic corruption, and the use of violence and coercion to protect interests.

The professor highlighted that the persistence of galamsey is due to its deep-seated integration into political and economic structures. According to Appiagyei-Tua, the trade involves a diverse array of stakeholders, including influential political figures who facilitate and protect these illegal operations. This high-level involvement makes the crime particularly difficult to combat, as the perpetrators often operate with a degree of impunity granted by their connections to power, which complicates enforcement efforts on the ground.

Furthermore, Appiagyei-Tua pointed to the transnational nature of the industry, noting that the networks involved often cross national borders. The sophisticated nature of these operations means they utilize advanced methods for extraction and distribution, often bypassing standard legal and environmental regulations. He emphasized that the violence and coercion associated with these networks are not incidental but are core tactics used to maintain control over mining sites and ensure the continued flow of illicit gold through various international channels.

The legal expert’s assessment suggests that traditional law enforcement approaches may be insufficient if they only target the miners on the ground. He called for a broader strategy that addresses the corruption within the political realm and the international dimensions of the gold trade. Without dismantling the high-level networks that profit from galamsey, Appiagyei-Tua warns that efforts to protect Ghana’s environment and water bodies will continue to face significant hurdles and likely fall short of achieving lasting change.