Wontumi Sentence A “Turning Point” In Galamsey Fight — UESD Lecturer Says Financiers Must Be Next
Senior Lecturer at the University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD), Professor Abass Gibrilla, says the 20‑year jail term handed to businessman Bernard Antwi Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi) marks a major shift in Ghana’s battle against illegal mining — signalling that the era of shielding powerful actors may be ending.
In an interview with the GNA at Somanya, Prof Gibrilla said the conviction breaks a long‑standing pattern where “vulnerable miners are targeted while the real financiers walk free.”
“The financiers are the source of the problem”
He argued that illegal mining cannot be defeated unless enforcement agencies focus on those who bankroll the operations.
“The financiers are the source of the problem because all along, we have been tackling it from the surface,” he said. “Once we tackle it from the source and begin prosecuting financiers, it will serve as a strong warning.”
Prof Gibrilla said the ruling sends a clear message to both Ghanaians and foreign nationals that financing galamsey carries severe consequences.
No one is above the law — but avoid politicising prosecutions
He welcomed the prosecution of politically exposed persons, saying it reinforces the principle that no individual, regardless of influence, is above the law.
However, he cautioned against turning such prosecutions into partisan battles.
“My worry is that these powerful people who are being prosecuted should not be politicised, but the government should also have the courage to prosecute its own.”
He noted that some cases involving individuals linked to the governing party are reportedly under investigation and called for clarity and decisive action.
“Crime has no expiry date”
Prof Gibrilla warned politicians who rely on political power as a shield that such protection is temporary.
“No matter who you are, once you indulge in illegal mining, a day of reckoning is coming. If you are doing it because your party is in power, remember tomorrow your party won’t be in power.”
He stressed that accountability can outlive political transitions.
“Crime has no expiry date. You won’t stay in power forever. Immediately your party leaves power, the justice system will surely get hold of you.”
Skills, research and sustainable mining needed
The hydrologist said Ghana must invest in skills development, research and sustainable mining technologies to reduce environmental destruction.
Current illegal mining methods, he noted, destroy vast lands for minimal gold output.
“With skills, knowledge and research, we can get the same quantity of gold within a smaller area.”
Collective action is the only way forward
Prof Gibrilla called for stronger collaboration among government, civil society, academia, research institutions, the media and the public.
“Illegal mining is polluting our water, food and air. If we all come together, we can protect the environment and secure a better future for generations to come.”
— GNA