The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Parliamentary Candidate for Madina, Mr. Robert Lamptey, has been accused of playing a pivotal role in illegal mining activities (galamsey) that have ravaged the forest and polluted the River Ayensu.
Credible independent investigations reveal that Mr. Lamptey, in collaboration with Michael Asare and Zekeriye Konugoglu, operates under Black ARK Company Limited.
The company is said to own 15 mining sites in the Ayensuanor area.
Their activities have been linked to widespread deforestation and contamination of water bodies, including the River Ayensu, which serves as a vital resource for local communities.
Environmental Damage and Community Outcry
Local farmers and residents have decried the devastating impact of the alleged operations.
Many claim that the polluted river has rendered the water unfit for consumption or irrigation.
“I now buy sachet water to cook on my farm, which was never the case before,” lamented Agya, a farmer in the area.
Others have expressed concerns over the potential for waterborne diseases and the collapse of aquatic ecosystems.
Leaked documents and videos show evidence of the destruction, including local community members voicing their frustration over the illegal mining operations.
The mining activities reportedly violate provisions of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), raising questions about enforcement and oversight.
Calls for Action
Environmentalists and civil society organizations have called on the government and relevant authorities to investigate the allegations and take decisive action to address the situation.
Local leaders have also urged the authorities to hold accountable those responsible for the environmental damage.
No Official Response Yet
Despite the mounting allegations, neither Mr. Lamptey nor Black ARK Company Limited has issued a statement.
The relevant government agencies, including the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, are yet to comment on the matter.
The destruction of forests and water bodies through illegal mining remains a pressing concern across Ghana, with critics urging political leaders to demonstrate greater commitment to environmental protection.
As the situation develops, all eyes are on the authorities to see whether they will act decisively to protect Ghana’s natural resources and hold perpetrators accountable.