EOCO set to investigate NDC’s Yamin, Abanga over illegal mining allegations

The Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, has instructed the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to launch a full-scale investigation into alleged illegal mining activities involving two senior executives of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).

In a directive dated July 15, 2025, Dr. Ayine named Abanga Yakubu Alhassan, Vice Chairman of the NDC, and Joseph Yamin, the party’s National Organiser, as subjects of the probe.

The Attorney-General cited growing public concern, media reports, and corroborated intelligence pointing to unauthorized mining activities across several districts as the basis for the investigation.

He also directed EOCO to widen the scope of the probe to include any other individuals found to be complicit in illegal mining operations.

The investigations are expected to reference issues outlined in the widely publicized report on illegal mining authored by Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng.

To support the process, EOCO has been advised to collaborate with the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, given the Commission’s regulatory role in the mining sector.

Dr. Ayine underscored that the directive reflects President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to eradicating illegal mining and promoting responsible natural resource management.

“These activities not only violate our mining regulations but also pose serious threats to our water bodies, forest reserves, and livelihoods,” the Attorney-General said, urging EOCO to handle the matter with urgency and seriousness.