Civil society group Democracy Hub has taken legal action against the government over its handling of foreign nationals involved in illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
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The group filed a suit at the High Court in Accra, naming the Minister for the Interior, the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), and the Attorney-General as respondents.
According to Democracy Hub, more than 100 foreign nationals engaged in galamsey operations have been deported without facing prosecution, an action they argue contravenes Section 99 of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703). The law mandates criminal prosecution for all individuals involved in illegal mining activities.
In a statement, the group described the government’s deportation approach as a disregard for due process and a violation of Ghana’s legal framework for regulating the mining sector.
However, the Interior Ministry has defended its actions, claiming the deportations are meant to prevent abuse of Ghana’s legal system and safeguard national interests. Officials denied any intent to favour foreign nationals or sidestep justice.
The case is expected to raise significant legal and constitutional questions about the intersection of immigration control and the enforcement of Ghana’s mining laws.
