Dr. Mensa-Bonsu, Associate Professor and Head of the Law, Humanities, and Social Sciences Department at Ashesi University, has raised concerns about the use of drones with a “shoot-to-kill” approach in Ghana’s fight against illegal mining, known as galamsey. She cautioned that while the method may eliminate illegal miners, it also poses the risk of harming innocent people who may be near these mining areas conducting their own lawful activities.
“Drones are not human; they can’t differentiate between illegal miners and innocent bystanders,” she said during her appearance on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, October 19. “The result could be a tragic loss of innocent lives.”
Dr. Mensa-Bonsu stressed that a more thoughtful and sustainable strategy is needed to address the issue. She suggested that deploying military forces permanently at illegal mining hotspots might be a more effective solution than resorting to drone strikes.
“The talk of lacking political will is prevalent, but unless those in charge show real commitment, the system will continue to be exploited by opportunists,” she added, calling for genuine efforts to combat galamsey.
On the same program, former Deputy Attorney General and Member of Parliament for Bolgatanga East, Dr. Dominic Ayine, advocated for a more extreme approach. He proposed using drones equipped with assault capabilities to target individuals engaging in illegal mining, particularly near water bodies.
Dr. Ayine shared that he had discussed the idea with a relative, suggesting the use of drones with heat-detection technology to identify human activity in restricted areas and fire on sight. “If this is what it takes to stop the environmental destruction we are witnessing, I would support it,” he stated.
The debate highlights the complexities surrounding the fight against galamsey and the need to balance firm action with the protection of innocent lives.
Source: Myjoyonline
