High Court Bans Atiwa East DCE Ernest Ntim Over Alleged Galamsey Activities

The Presiding Judge of Koforidua High Court 2, His Lordship George Krofa, on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, issued a landmark judicial ban against the District Chief Executive (DCE) of Atiwa East, Ernest Ntim, and his family members, prohibiting them from engaging in any form of galamsey within the district. The ruling marks a significant step in efforts to curb the escalating environmental destruction caused by illegal mining.

The decision follows persistent reports and widespread public outcry linking the DCE and his relatives to illegal mining operations, despite repeated warnings and existing mining regulations. According to accounts presented before the court, DCE Ntim is alleged to have played a direct role in galamsey activities that have polluted water bodies, degraded forest reserves, and destroyed farmlands.

Residents have long expressed frustration over the destruction of their properties, often with little to no compensation for affected landowners and farmers. Many say the unchecked activities have left their communities vulnerable and their livelihoods threatened.

This is not the first time DCE Ntim has faced legal consequences over galamsey. In 2025, the same High Court convicted him and sentenced him to eight days in custody. Although he paid a fine of GH¢120,000 for the offences, reports indicate that he allegedly intensified his illegal mining activities upon regaining his freedom, further fueling public anger.

The growing environmental devastation and loss of livelihoods culminated in a mass protest on March 1, 2026, where residents of Atiwa East took to the streets demanding the removal of the DCE. They argued that his continued presence in office undermined the government’s credibility and endangered their lands.

Their concerns were echoed again during a Joy News bulletin on March 15, 2026, where residents reiterated their fears and pleaded for urgent intervention to prevent further harm.

Given the DCE’s previous encounters with the law and the fresh allegations presented, the High Court moved swiftly. The injunction now bars DCE Ntim and his family from participating in any illegal mining activities within the district.

This second judicial action against the DCE has placed renewed pressure on President John Dramani Mahama’s administration. Many Ghanaians are watching closely to see whether the President will remove DCE Ntim from office or allow him to remain despite the court’s ruling and the mounting public outcry.

The ruling underscores the judiciary’s resolve to uphold the law and protect Ghana’s natural resources from the destructive impact of illegal mining.