Fight Against Galamsey: Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey Demands Probe into Alleged Police Attack on Dr. Hanna Bisiw

By Joylinda Laryea / June 19, 2025

The Convener of the Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey, Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, is calling for an immediate and thorough investigation into the alleged assault on Dr. Hanna Bisiw by personnel of the Ghana Police Service.

The incident, which reportedly occurred during a protest against illegal mining (galamsey), has sparked public outrage, with several civil society groups demanding accountability and justice.

Dr. Ashigbey, a leading voice in the fight against environmental degradation caused by galamsey, expressed deep concern over what he described as a “worrying trend of state brutality against lawful protesters.”

"We cannot allow those who are standing up to defend our lands, water bodies, and the future of our children to be silenced or brutalized. The alleged attack on Dr. Hanna Bisiw is not just an attack on her as a person, but an attack on the fight against galamsey," he stated.

He urged the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Ministry of the Interior to launch an independent probe into the matter, hold any culpable officers accountable, and ensure such actions do not recur.

Dr. Hanna Bisiw, a former Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture and current National Women’s Organizer of the  National Democratic Congress (NDC), is reported to have sustained injuries during the incident. Her team claims she was targeted due to her outspoken criticism of government inaction on illegal mining activities.

Dr. Ashigbey reiterated the Coalition's call for a state of emergency in illegal mining zones to protect affected communities and the environment, adding that the fight against galamsey must be pursued with transparency, unity, and respect for human rights.

As of press time, the Ghana Police Service has not issued an official response to the allegations.