"I purchased seven Sprinter buses in just one week using money earned from illegal mining," an illegal miner has disclosed.

In an interview on the Ultimate Breakfast Show, an illegal miner, known as a "galamseyer," disclosed that he purchased seven Mercedes Benz Sprinter buses using earnings from just one week of illegal mining. 

Back in 2014, a single Sprinter bus cost GH¢80,000, yet I managed to buy seven after working for only a week in a galamsey concession. Which job can provide that kind of money?

he asked.

The miner, who wished to remain anonymous, noted that his workers could have earned even more if not for the fear of arrest by security forces.

 This was just quick work we were doing. Just imagine the politicians who have all the protection to mine in those areas.

 he remarked.

He emphasized that those involved in this illegal business, which has led to the pollution of Ghana’s rivers and forests, include politicians, wealthy businessmen, and religious leaders—people who are typically not suspected of such activities. He also claimed that local chiefs, who should protect their lands, not only sold them but also hindered miners from reclaiming them.

We often blame the Chinese for the destruction and the large pits they leave behind. However, the chiefs won't allow us to fill in the pits or reclaim the land. Once we leave, they permit others to return and mine again, seeking to continue benefiting from the pits.

 the miner explained.

When asked about calls for government action against illegal mining, he expressed skepticism about the situation improving, stating, “Miners will continue their activities until the end of the world.”

Credit:Pulse.