The Ghana Police Service arrested several protesters from the Democracy Hub group in the capital Accra on the second day of their three-day demonstration against illegal mining, commonly known as “Galamsey.” The arrests followed a warning from the police, advising protesters not to gather at the same location for a second consecutive day.
While the police have yet to release an official statement regarding the exact number of detainees or potential charges, it is estimated that about 20 protesters were taken into custody.
The Democracy Hub group had planned a three-day “Stop Galamsey Now” protest despite an Accra High Court injunction issued against the demonstration, which was initially scheduled to take place from September 21st to 23rd, 2024. Despite the court order, the protesters assembled at the 37 Roundabout in Accra, determined to deliver their message to the president, calling for immediate government action to address the devastating impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s environment.
In response, the police blocked key roads leading to Jubilee House, preventing the protesters from advancing towards the presidency. The arrests have sparked widespread debate on social media, with many questioning the situation and raising concerns about the right to peaceful assembly in the country.
Report by Dede Davies