In a recent operation, the Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners’ Taskforce successfully apprehended five individuals engaged in illegal mining activities along the Birim River in Mampong, situated in the Atewa East District of the Eastern Region. This decisive action comes in the wake of ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining—often referred to as “Galamsey”—which has become a significant environmental and regulatory issue in Ghana. The Taskforce’s operations are part of a larger initiative aimed at curbing the destructive practices that threaten water bodies and overall environmental sustainability.
The Taskforce’s crackdown on illegal mining activities was particularly intense, as evidenced by their destruction of 40 changfans, which are machines typically used for mining. The authorities also confiscated two newly built changfans that were on the verge of being deployed by illegal miners, indicating a robust preemptive approach to thwart further environmental harm. Notably, this operation came shortly after a prior military intervention, where several changfans had already been set ablaze, highlighting the persistence of illegal miners who quickly returned to the site to resume their activities.
During the operation, two suspects were apprehended directly in the river while they were actively mining with their changfan. This situation underscores the blatant disregard for the law exhibited by many illegal miners, demonstrating their willingness to continue operations even in the presence of law enforcement. As the Taskforce prepared to leave the mining site, they encountered a truck that was transporting two additional changfans intended for the same illegal mining operations. The quick response by the Taskforce to this discovery illustrates their vigilance and determination to dismantle the infrastructure that supports illegal mining.
Upon spotting the Taskforce, two individuals in the truck attempted to flee but were pursued and ultimately arrested. In a twist of events, another individual, identified as Nana Kwadwo Ayimadu, claimed ownership of the confiscated changfans and tried to obstruct the efforts of the Taskforce to take the truck into custody. His arrest, along with the apprehension of the other suspects, further emphasizes the serious legal repercussions that come with illegal mining activities in Ghana. The swift and coordinated actions of the Taskforce reflect a commitment to enforcing environmental laws and holding violators accountable.
The five suspects are currently in custody at the Kibi District Police Command and are expected to face charges in court soon, signaling an important step toward legal accountability for illegal mining activities. Additionally, the confiscated truck and changfans have been handed over to the police, further assisting in the investigations and potential subsequent legal processes against those involved in illegal mining operations. The implications of these arrests extend beyond individual accountability; they represent a signal to other illegal miners that such activities will not be tolerated.
Mr. Thomas Larbi, the Treasurer of the Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners, confirmed the arrests and reiterated the association’s dedication to addressing the illegal mining crisis that threatens the nation’s water resources and broader environmental health. His comments reflect a growing recognition within the mining community concerning the need for responsible practices and careful management of natural resources. The ongoing efforts of the Taskforce, supported by the wider community, indeed signal a robust response to the challenges posed by illegal mining, as policymakers, law enforcement, and local communities collaborate to ensure the protection of Ghana’s invaluable water bodies and natural landscapes.
