The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mubarak, has announced decisive plans by the government to establish special courts to fast-track the prosecution of foreign nationals involved in illegal mining (galamsey) and other organised crimes.
The move forms part of broader efforts to strengthen justice delivery and protect Ghana’s natural resources.
Addressing a Christian–Muslim dialogue group in Wa on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, the Minister said persistent delays in prosecution have allowed many suspects to evade accountability, often enabling them to dispose of illegally acquired assets and escape the justice system.
“You arrest someone, take them to court, and the case drags on forever. Before you finish, the assets are gone. Now we can prosecute properly instead of just removing them. If you are a foreigner and you destroy our land or rivers, the law will deal with you swiftly,” he warned.
Muntaka described the situation as alarming, citing stark prosecution figures to underscore the urgency of reform.
“In 2023, out of 218 cases, only 24 were concluded. In 2024, out of 628 cases, only 11 were concluded. This is unacceptable,” he stressed.
He further revealed that some suspects deliberately provide false identities to frustrate investigations.
“Someone will tell you his name is ‘Muntaka’, move from Kumasi to another town, and disappear,” he explained.
With the backing of the Chief Justice, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, the proposed Special Courts will be equipped with dedicated judges and interpreters to ensure swift and effective prosecution.
