Former Ghana Ambassador to the Netherlands, Dr Tony Aidoo, has made a passionate appeal to President John Dramani Mahama and his government to take urgent and decisive action against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
His remarks follow the tragic crash of a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 military helicopter on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, in Adansi Sikaman in the Ashanti Region.
The crash claimed the lives of eight service members who were on a mission connected to anti-galamsey operations.
Speaking on News File on Saturday, August 9, 2025, as monitored by GhanaWeb, Dr Aidoo expressed concern over what he described as “avoidable deaths,” blaming galamsey for the increasing risks and fatalities.
“Avoidable death. Why were they in the air? They were in the air because of galamsey. I am glad to hear people speaking up against it. President Mahama must kill galamsey before it kills members of his government,” he said.
Dr Aidoo added that the most fitting tribute to the eight fallen gallant men would be a renewed campaign to end illegal mining in the country.
“For God’s sake, Mr President, don’t let their deaths be in vain. Stop galamsey now. That’s the best tribute we can pay today to these patriotic souls,” he emphasised.
President John Mahama has since announced that a state funeral will be held on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Black Star Square in Accra to honour the eight fallen service members.
In the lead-up to the funeral, a candlelight vigil and memorial service will be held at the forecourt of the State House on Saturday, August 9, 2025, in remembrance of the gallant men who died in the line of duty.
