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The Koforidua High Court 2 has varied its earlier ruling against the Atiwa East Municipal Chief Executive, Ernest Ntim, by commuting his eight-day jail sentence to a fine of GHC12,000 after finding him in contempt of court over illegal mining activities.
The court initially sentenced the MCE to serve a custodial term for his involvement in galamsey operations on protected land in the Eastern Region. However, following submissions from his legal team on Monday, December 15, the court reviewed its decision and imposed a financial penalty instead.
In its ruling, the court held that Ernest Ntim and members of his team were responsible for extensive environmental damage, including the destruction of farmlands and the pollution of the Koben River, a critical water source for several communities in the area.
The court further noted that the illegal mining activities posed serious threats to livelihoods and public health, stressing that public officials have a higher responsibility to protect the environment rather than contribute to its degradation.
Ntim was cited for contempt after he allegedly continued engaging in illegal mining despite an injunction application pending before the court. The judge emphasised that the decision to impose a fine did not downplay the gravity of the offence.
According to the court, the ruling serves as a strong warning against galamsey and environmental abuse, particularly when public officials are directly involved in activities that undermine the law and harm natural resources.
