The Ghana Police Service has issued a stern warning to organizers of the Concerned Citizens Against Galamsey demonstration, scheduled to take place from October 3 to 5, 2024.
The police emphasized that organizers will be held accountable for any breaches of the law during the demonstration.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the police highlighted the responsibilities of organizers under the Public Order Act. This includes being liable for damages to public property and ensuring participants obey police directions to maintain order and prevent obstruction of traffic.
The police also reminded organizers of their own responsibilities under the Public Order Act. These include directing event routes to prevent pedestrian or vehicular traffic obstruction and dispersing crowds where a breach of peace is likely to occur.
To prevent violence and restore order, the police may close streets or erect barriers as necessary. Organizers are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that avoids causing confusion or disorder.
The demonstration aims to bring attention to the issue of galamsey, or illegal mining, which has been a persistent problem in Ghana. The government has faced criticism for not doing enough to address the issue.
The Minerals and Mining Act clearly prohibits illegal mining, but enforcement has been lacking. Critics argue that the government’s failure to enforce the law has emboldened illegal miners.
The police have assured the public that sufficient security measures are in place to maintain law and order during the demonstration. The police are committed to ensuring peace and security beyond the demonstration.
The demonstration’s organizers have not yet responded to the police warning. However, their event aims to pressure the government to take decisive action against galamsey.
Ghanaians are watching the situation closely, hoping that the demonstration will bring attention to the urgent need for action against illegal mining.
The outcome of the demonstration will likely have significant implications for the government’s handling of the galamsey issue and the rule of law in Ghana.
Read the press statement below..
