Atiwa East MCE jailed for galamsey contempt by Koforidua High Court 2

The Municipal Chief Executive of Atiwa East, Ernest Ntim, has been sentenced to eight days imprisonment by the Koforidua High Court 2 for engaging in illicit mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey, on a protected land in the Eastern Region of Ghana.

The court found Ntim and his accomplices guilty of causing destruction to the land, polluting the Koben River, and contaminating the water source that supplies several communities.

The ruling was delivered today, Monday, December 15, 2025, following multiple adjournments by the court.

Reports indicate that Ntim’s actions resulted in significant environmental degradation, including the destruction of farmlands and water bodies, thereby posing a threat to the livelihoods of local residents.

The court’s decision comes after Ntim was cited for contempt of court for allegedly continuing galamsey activities despite a pending injunction motion.

The case has generated significant interest in Ghana, underscoring the government’s efforts to combat illegal mining and protect the environment. The court’s ruling exemplifies its commitment to upholding the law and holding public officials accountable for their actions.

The Atiwa East MCE’s sentencing serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of galamsey on Ghana’s environment and the need for collective action to address this issue.

The government has been working to strengthen laws and enforcement to curb illegal mining, and this case may signal a shift towards greater accountability. Ntim’s sentence has also raised questions about the role of government officials in environmental protection and the need for them to lead by example.

As Ghana continues to grapple with the challenges of illegal mining, cases like this will likely play a crucial role in shaping the country’s approach to environmental conservation.

The court’s decision is seen as a victory for environmental activists and communities affected by galamsey. However, some are calling for more stringent measures to address the root causes of illegal mining and ensure that those responsible face justice.

As the news of Ntim’s sentence spreads, it is likely to spark a national conversation about the impact of galamsey and the need for collective action to protect Ghana’s environment.