The Nadowli-Kaleo District in Ghana has witnessed a significant victory in its ongoing battle against illegal mining. A joint operation involving the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), the District Police Command, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), and other members of the District Security Council (DISEC) resulted in the seizure of 250 containers of cyanide, a highly toxic chemical commonly used in illegal gold mining. The seized cyanide, estimated to be worth GH¢ 800,000, was intercepted in Zupiri, a community situated along the Black Volta River, a vital water source for the local population. While the suspects involved in the transportation of the cyanide managed to escape, the District Police Command has initiated investigations and is actively pursuing leads to apprehend them. The District Assembly has secured a court order to retain the confiscated cyanide while the investigations are underway.
This successful operation comes as a direct response to numerous complaints lodged by local communities regarding the devastating impact of illegal alluvial gold mining on their lives and the environment. The Black Volta River, the primary source of drinking water and essential for various domestic uses, including livestock watering, especially during dry seasons, has been severely jeopardized by the introduction of toxic chemicals used in illegal mining operations. The contamination of the river poses a serious threat to public health and the ecological balance of the area. Beyond water pollution, the pervasive use of chemicals in illegal mining has also resulted in a drastic reduction in farm yields, further impacting the livelihoods of local farmers who rely heavily on agriculture. The resulting soil infertility, attributed to chemical contamination, has added another layer of hardship to the already struggling communities.
In response to the escalating crisis and the growing concerns of the affected communities, the District Chief Executive (DCE), Hon. Madam Mary Haruna, directed the District Security Council (DISEC) to take decisive action against all forms of illegal mining within the district. The recent interception of the cyanide shipment marks a significant achievement resulting from this directive and underscores the effectiveness of collaborative efforts between various security agencies. Prior to this successful operation, the pleas of the affected communities had largely gone unanswered, highlighting the significance of this intervention. The community members have expressed their gratitude to the DCE and the security agencies for their prompt action and have called for regular patrols to deter future illegal mining activities. This successful operation signifies a turning point in the fight against illegal mining in the area, offering a glimmer of hope for the restoration of the environment and the livelihoods of the affected communities.
Hon. Madam Mary Haruna has commended the security agencies, particularly the Police, GIS, NADMO, and NIB, for their dedication, vigilance, and intelligence-led approach, which played a crucial role in the successful operation. She emphasized the importance of discipline and commitment in safeguarding both human lives and the environment. Recognizing the national effort to combat illegal mining, she urged community members, particularly the youth, to actively participate in this endeavor by forming watchdog groups, remaining vigilant, and reporting any suspicious activities near water bodies. This call for community involvement underscores the importance of collective responsibility in protecting natural resources and preserving the environment for future generations.
Zupiri’s location as a border community has made it a hotspot for smuggling activities, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the Nadowli-Kaleo District. The lack of a permanent post for the Ghana Immigration Service and other security agencies has hampered efforts to effectively monitor and patrol the area, allowing illegal activities to flourish. To address this critical security gap, the DCE, Hon. Mary Haruna, has committed to constructing a permanent structure to accommodate security personnel. This initiative aims to enhance regular patrols, curb smuggling, and strengthen overall security measures to protect lives and property in the area. The establishment of a permanent security presence is expected to significantly improve surveillance and response capabilities, contributing to the long-term stability and security of the region.
The successful operation in Zupiri serves as a powerful example of what can be achieved through collaboration between district leadership, security forces, and local communities. It sends a strong message to those engaged in illegal mining that their actions will not be tolerated and that they will be held accountable. The Nadowli-Kaleo District Assembly is urging all residents, especially those residing in communities along the Black Volta River, to remain vigilant and actively support the fight against illegal mining. As the national crackdown on illegal mining intensifies, local successes like this play a crucial role in protecting Ghana’s natural resources and safeguarding public health. The collective effort to combat illegal mining is not only essential for environmental preservation but also for the overall well-being and sustainable development of the nation.
