The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has urged truck drivers and sand-winning operators to fully comply with Ghana’s mining laws and source materials only from authorised sites.
The call was made by the Director of Operations of NAIMOS, K.S. Appiah, at a meeting with truck drivers whose vehicles were seized during recent enforcement exercises and representatives of sand-winning associations.
Speaking at the NAIMOS residence, Mr Appiah explained that commercial sand winning and stone quarrying require valid mineral and environmental permits. He emphasised that ownership of land or approval from traditional authorities alone does not legalise such activities.
Mr Appiah further advised drivers and truck owners to confirm the legal status of loading sites and keep accurate records of their suppliers to avoid being implicated in illegal mining operations.
On the issue of seized vehicles, he assured participants that every case would be reviewed on its individual merits and urged affected owners to submit the necessary documents for verification.
He also called for stronger collaboration between NAIMOS, the Minerals Commission, the Environmental Protection Authority and the various associations to improve communication and promote greater compliance with the law.
Story by : Fred Elorm Green
