Banda-Ahenkro: Mr. Joseph Addae Akwaboa, the Bono Regional Minister, has issued a stern warning to illegal miners in the region, urging them to cease their activities or face a minimum of 10 years in jail. The minister emphasized the region’s commitment to cracking down on illegal mining and assured that offenders would be prosecuted.

According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Akwaboa called on everyone to support the government’s efforts to protect the nation’s natural resources for future generations. He highlighted the responsibility to safeguard these resources, as past generations did for the current population.

The warning was delivered during Mr. Akwaboa’s address at the Banda District Assembly, where Mr. Peter Dongi was confirmed as the Banda District Chief Executive. The assembly’s 19 members unanimously endorsed Mr. Dongi in an election overseen by the Electoral Commission.

Mr. Akwaboa reiterated the importance of protecting natural resources and urged a collective effort to combat illegal mining. He warned that individuals caught engaging in such practices would face severe penalties.

The minister also called on local chiefs, queens, and community members to support government initiatives against illegal mining. He noted the availability of opportunities for unemployed youth under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration and encouraged them to pursue decent jobs. Mr. Akwaboa expressed concern over the harm caused by illegal mining to the Bui Generating Station and urged the newly confirmed DCE to collaborate with assembly members to address the issue and promote the district’s development.