In a significant crackdown on illegal mining, a Togolese national, Shaibu Yaw, has been sentenced to 18 years jail term with hard labour by the Koforidua Circuit Court A, in the Eastern Region.
The convict Shaibu was arrested for engaging in illegal mining activities at Akyem Muoso in the Atiwa West District.
This verdict comes as Ghana intensifies its fight against environmental degradation caused by “galamsey” operations.
Guilty Plea
Shaibu pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit a crime related to illegal mining and engaging in mining without a valid license.
He was fined 10,000 penalty units for both counts, totaling 20,000 penalty units.
The 18-year prison term will run concurrently, but the fine will run consecutively, meaning Shaibu must pay the financial penalties for each count separately.
Plea to Return to Togo
Before sentencing, Shaibu pleaded with the court to allow him to return to his home country, Togo, promising never to engage in illegal mining in Ghana again.
However, Judge Abigail Animah Asare emphasized the severity of the crime and its devastating impact on Ghana’s natural resources, necessitating a firm sentence.
Bail for Five Other Accused
In addition to Shaibu’s sentencing, the court granted bail to five other individuals arrested for alleged illegal mining at Akyem Adasawase.
Eric Niko and David Kodza were granted bail set at GH¢250,000 each, while Robert Mawuli and Awuli David were granted bail of GH¢50,000 each. Nana Kojo Ayimadu, believed to be a galamsey kingpin was granted a lower bail of GH¢20,000 with stricter conditions.
Source:dailyguidenetwork.com