The Ashanti Regional Police Command launched a targeted operation against illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey,” in the Manso Adubia area of the Amansie South District, resulting in the apprehension of fifteen individuals. The operation, driven by intelligence reports, focused on two notorious galamsey hotspots, Watreso and Preacher Krom, where the suspects were allegedly actively engaged in illicit mining activities. This decisive action underscores the authorities’ commitment to combating the pervasive issue of illegal mining, which poses significant environmental and socioeconomic threats to Ghana.
The arrested individuals, a mix of Ghanaians and foreign nationals, ranged in age from 21 to 45. They included Tahiru Ibrahim, Shaibu Idrissu, Boateng Emmanuel, Jamon Kwaku Samuel, Yaro Patrick, Kofi Boakye, Gubong Mathew, Fatawu Zackari Seidu, Abdul Malik Seidu, Dauda Tahiru, Sampson Grace, Boolangkpuo Freda, Arima Hagar, Kwarteng Vasco, and Kwame Adutwum. The diversity of ages and backgrounds among those arrested highlights the widespread involvement in illegal mining activities, attracting individuals from various walks of life driven by the allure of quick profits, despite the inherent risks and legal consequences.
During the raid, police seized a significant cache of equipment used in illegal mining operations, further solidifying the evidence against the suspects. This equipment included two excavator control boards, essential for operating the heavy machinery used to excavate land, and a water pumping machine, used to extract water and process mined materials. The presence of these items indicates a sophisticated and organized illegal mining operation. Additionally, two power generators were confiscated, likely used to power the equipment in remote locations where access to electricity is limited. A vulcanizing machine was also found, possibly used for repairing tires of vehicles involved in transporting mined materials.
Furthermore, and most alarmingly, the police recovered several weapons and ammunition from the site, highlighting the dangerous and often violent nature of illegal mining activities. Two automatic pump-action guns and two Musler 12 firearms were seized, along with 59 BB cartridges and three AA cartridges. The presence of these weapons suggests the potential for violence and intimidation, often used to protect illegal mining operations from interference by law enforcement or rival groups. This discovery underscores the need for continued and enhanced security measures to address the criminal elements often associated with galamsey.
The confiscated Apsonic motorbike likely served as a means of transportation for the miners within the mining site and possibly for transporting small quantities of mined materials. The totality of the seized items paints a picture of a well-equipped and potentially dangerous illegal mining operation. The retrieval of these items provides crucial evidence for the ongoing investigation and strengthens the case against the apprehended individuals.
All fifteen suspects are currently in police custody as investigations continue. The seized equipment, weapons, and ammunition are being retained as evidence. The police are likely pursuing further investigations to determine the full extent of the illegal mining operation, identify any other individuals or groups involved, and uncover the network supporting these activities. This successful operation signifies a positive step in the fight against illegal mining in Ghana, demonstrating the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations in targeting and dismantling these illicit operations.
