The war against illegal mining has been given a boost with the immediate suspension of all reconnaissance and prospecting in forest reserves.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, which issued the directive, said all persons and companies engaged in those activities, with or without legal authorisation, should suspend them until further notice.
It has also directed the Minerals Commission not to, with immediate effect, accept, process and recommend the granting, including renewal and extension, of reconnaissance and prospecting licences in forest reserves.
The directive, signed by the sector Minister,Mr Samuel Abu Jinapor Thursday [April 22, 2021, declared: “For the avoidance of doubt, except as directed by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources in writing, all activities and operations in respect of any reconnaissance and/or prospecting licences in forest reserves are hereby suspended until further notice.”