A member of the Minerals Commission Board, Nana Adwoa Foriwah, has warned members of the Blue Water Guards not to accept bribes from illegal miners, urging them to stay committed to their duty of safeguarding rivers and forest reserves.
She delivered the caution during a ceremony to formally receive the team at New Edubiase in the Adansi South District of the Ashanti Region.
The gathering was attended by the District Chief Executive, traditional authorities, and officials from the Minerals Commission.
Speaking to Adom News, Nana Adwoa Foriwah said the trust placed in her by the president comes with great responsibility, and she intends to honour that confidence by supporting strong measures against illegal mining.
She reaffirmed the district’s determination to protect its natural resources, stressing that rivers and forest areas must be preserved for the wellbeing of both current and future generations.
Nana Adwoa Foriwah also encouraged the Blue Water Guards to work with honesty and discipline, reminding them that the nation’s interests should always outweigh personal benefit. She assured them that commitment and integrity would be recognised.
Meanwhile, the Adansi South DCE, Oheneba Kwabena Ando, noted that key rivers in the district — including the Offin, Anum and Pra — have been badly polluted as a result of ongoing illegal mining. He explained that the area’s rich gold reserves continue to draw illegal operators, making the work of the Blue Water Guards even more essential.
He therefore urged the team to remain steadfast in their mission despite the difficulties they may encounter.
The Blue Water Guards form part of a national initiative to combat illegal mining and restore damaged water bodies, working in collaboration with local authorities and security agencies to enforce mining laws.
