Nene Oman IV, the Asafoatse (sub-Chief) of the Ningo Kabiawe clan and a police prosecuting chief inspector, has advised sand winners to operate within the laws covering sand mining in Ghana.
Nene Oman said, just like other jobs, sand mining provided income for many people, stressing, however, that there were laws governing covering it and they must strictly be adhered to ensure smooth operation and avoidance of prosecutions and legalities.
He gave the advice during the election of new executives for the Ningo-Prampram, Ada Zone of the Sand, Stone, and Tipper Truck Association.
Nene Oman stated that "sand mining is not a bad thing for people to engage in, but most of the miners violate the rules governing the sand mining practice. This leads to most miners going through prosecution frequently, hence making the mining unattractive."
He further noted that when sand winners operated on lands enjoined by the law court, they were liable to be cited for contempt; therefore, it was very important to desist from going against such court decisions in their quest to win sand.
Mr Lyngstern Whyte, the newly elected chairman of the association, thanked members for the support, revealing that his vision was to tackle the many challenges bedeviling their operations within the zone troubles.
Mr Whyte reiterated the need to do the sand business according to law, calling on stakeholders to support them in that quest.
He gave the assurance that the association would streamline its work and ensure they acquire lands through the right channels and ensure everything is legally done before machines move in to win sand.
He also urged members to follow the laid-down procedure in addressing their grievances to ensure peace prevailed in the sector.
The newly elected executive members include Mr Samuel O. Kumordzi, Vice Chairman; Mr Tetteh Pinto, Secretary; Mr Emmanuel Asigbe, Organiser; and Mr Agbo Yazeed Nartey, Treasurer.