The Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, has declared that all foreign nationals caught engaging in illegal mining in Ghana will be repatriated without exception. He directed regional police commanders to immediately transfer any foreigner found involved in illegal mining or fraudulent activities to the Ghana Immigration Service for deportation.
Since assuming office, Muntaka revealed that 170 foreigners had already been deported under this strict policy. He also warned police commanders that failure to comply with the directive could result in reassignment.
Muntaka was at a regional police commanders’ conference in Accra last Friday. The event, which gathered top police officials from across the country, focused on strengthening security measures and improving law enforcement strategies.
In addition to deportations, Muntaka announced plans to track the owners of bulldozers and heavy equipment found at illegal mining sites. He issued a stern warning to individuals renting out machinery for illegal mining, stating that they would be held accountable.
To curb the misuse of firearms, the minister disclosed plans to introduce mandatory firearm training for gun licence applicants. He explained that background checks had revealed many gun owners lacked proper training in firearm handling and storage.
Muntaka also stressed the importance of continuous professional development within the police force. He criticised the current promotion system, which is based primarily on years of service, and proposed a structured training approach.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno reiterated that illegal mining posed serious security risks, especially in forest reserves and mining communities. He cited cases where armed criminals had attacked forest guards in regions such as Western North.
He also addressed the prolonged conflict in Bawku, highlighting its national security implications.
Yohuno acknowledged concerns about corruption, excessive use of force, and procedural injustices within the police service, warning that these issues damage public trust.
The IGP also emphasised the need to prioritise police welfare, including medical care, accommodation, and overall working conditions. He assured officers that once the Police Council was constituted, all pending petitions regarding promotions and welfare matters would be reviewed.
