The Koforidua High Court 2 has fined the Atiwa East Municipal Chief Executive, Ernest Ntim, GHC12,000 after finding him in contempt of court over his involvement in illegal mining activities on protected land in the Eastern Region.
The fine followed an initial ruling that sentenced Ntim to eight days in jail, a decision the court later reviewed and varied on Monday, December 15, after considering submissions from his lawyers.
The court found that Ernest Ntim, together with members of his team, was responsible for the destruction of farmlands, the pollution of the Koben River, and the contamination of a critical water source serving several surrounding communities.
Delivering the ruling on Monday, December 15, after several adjournments, the court held that the illegal mining operations caused severe environmental damage and posed a significant threat to the livelihoods of residents in the affected areas.
Ernest Ntim was cited for contempt of court after he allegedly continued engaging in galamsey activities despite an injunction application already before the court.
The judgment highlights the judiciary’s strong resolve to clamp down on illegal mining and environmental degradation, especially when public officials are implicated.
The Atiwa area in the Eastern Region has increasingly gained notoriety for illegal small-scale mining, commonly known as galamsey, despite repeated efforts by authorities to curb the practice.
Once known largely for its rich forest reserves, fertile farmlands, and vital water bodies, Atiwa has in recent years become a hotspot for illegal mining operations.
These activities have led to widespread environmental degradation, including the destruction of farmlands, depletion of forest cover, and severe pollution of rivers and streams that serve as sources of drinking water for many communities.
Residents say the impact of galamsey has affected their livelihoods, particularly farming and fishing, which are the main sources of income in the area.
Several water bodies have reportedly become unsafe for domestic use, forcing communities to rely on alternative and often costly water sources.
Although security agencies and regulatory bodies have carried out periodic operations to dismantle illegal mining sites, the practice continues, often resurfacing shortly after enforcement actions.
The involvement of influential individuals has also raised public concern and intensified calls for stronger accountability.
