The Member of Parliament for the Akwatia Constituency in the Eastern Region, Bernard Bediako Baidoo, has cautioned members of the newly inaugurated Denkyembour District Blue Water Guards to remain professional and resist any temptation to collaborate with illegal mining operators.
He delivered the warning at a ceremony held in Akwatia to inaugurate the Blue Water Guards, an initiative aimed at supporting efforts to protect local water bodies from illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey.
The Denkyembour District Assembly has rolled out the Blue Water Guards as part of broader measures to preserve rivers and streams and ensure access to clean and safe water for residents. The initiative is expected to strengthen monitoring and enforcement against activities that pollute water bodies in the area.
Addressing the gathering, Lawyer Bediako Baidoo stressed that the success of the initiative depends largely on the integrity and commitment of the guards. He cautioned them against acting as informants for galamsey operators, warning that any such conduct would undermine government efforts to safeguard the environment.
“The responsibility placed on you is a serious one.
You must not compromise your duties by collaborating with illegal miners. That will only derail the fight against galamsey and destroy our water bodies,” he stated.
The Denkyembour District Chief Executive (DCE), Umar Ahmed Tutu, also expressed concern about the growing impact of illegal mining on rivers in the district. He noted that galamsey continues to threaten livelihoods, public health, and the wellbeing of future generations.
He urged the guards to work diligently, fearlessly, and with integrity in the discharge of their duties.
The DCE further appealed to traditional leaders, community members, and other stakeholders to support the Blue Water Guards and report any illegal mining activities to the appropriate authorities.
