The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has announced its intention to arrest individuals involved in packaging and circulating illegally mined polluted water, labeled as ‘galamsey water,’ in local markets. The FDA, in collaboration with security agencies, is launching this operation, according to a press statement issued on October 21, 2024.
“The FDA expresses deep concern about the packaging of water linked to illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as ‘galamsey,’ which is being sold in sachets,” the statement reads. “The packaging of unwholesome water not only jeopardizes public health and safety but also poses serious health risks to the population.”
The FDA further warned the public against supporting such ventures and urged citizens to refrain from purchasing or distributing the contaminated water.
This announcement comes in the wake of a symbolic protest last week, during which anti-galamsey activists packaged polluted water in sachets to illustrate the grim future of the country’s water bodies if illegal mining activities continue unchecked. The water, carried in pans by hawkers, was paraded through the principal streets to raise awareness about the environmental damage caused by galamsey.
This protest is one of many that have taken place since the end of September, all calling for decisive action from the government to address the ongoing illegal mining crisis.
Source:opemsuo.com