The Ghana Police Service has significantly escalated its campaign against illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey,” in the Western Region of Ghana. This intensified effort focuses on targeted, intelligence-led operations aimed at disrupting illegal mining activities, apprehending perpetrators, and seizing equipment used in these illicit practices. Recent operations have yielded significant results, demonstrating the effectiveness of this strategic approach in combating the pervasive problem of galamsey, which has devastating environmental and socio-economic consequences. The police are committed to upholding the law and protecting Ghana’s natural resources from further degradation caused by illegal mining.
One of the most recent operations targeted the Obeng Mining Group site in Wassa Japa, a known hotspot for illegal mining activities. Acting on gathered intelligence, the police raided the site and successfully disabled 64 changfan machines. These machines, commonly used in illegal gold mining, are employed to separate gold ore from other materials through a process of washing and sifting. By disabling these machines, the police effectively halted the ongoing illegal mining operations at this particular site, disrupting the flow of illicitly mined gold and sending a strong message to other illegal miners operating in the area. The operation at Wassa Japa highlights the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing in targeting the specific tools and technologies used in galamsey.
In another targeted operation in Wassa Dominase, the police responded to intelligence reports indicating illegal mining activities taking place near the Goil and Energy Oil filling stations. This proximity to sensitive infrastructure underscores the risks associated with galamsey, as such activities can compromise the safety and integrity of vital installations. The police operation in Wassa Dominase resulted in the disablement of seven changfan machines and associated washing boards, further disrupting illegal mining operations. They also retrieved three water pumping machines and a pickaxe, essential tools used in the extraction and processing of gold ore. The seizure of this equipment further impedes the ability of illegal miners to continue their activities, effectively dismantling their operations.
Further demonstrating the breadth and scope of their operations, the police also conducted a raid in Asankrangwa. Here, they targeted an illegal mining site situated near the 1D1F (One District, One Factory) building, a government initiative designed to stimulate industrial growth and create employment opportunities at the district level. The presence of illegal mining activities near this development project highlights the potential for galamsey to undermine legitimate economic initiatives and jeopardize the government’s efforts to promote sustainable development. During the operation in Asankrangwa, the police successfully retrieved three water pumping machines and four motorbikes, likely used for transport and logistical purposes by the illegal miners. The confiscation of these items further disrupts the logistical chain supporting illegal mining operations.
In total, the recent operations across the Western Region have resulted in the arrest of 23 suspects. These individuals are currently in police custody, assisting with ongoing investigations. The arrests represent a significant step towards holding perpetrators accountable for their illegal activities and dismantling the networks that support galamsey. The information gathered from these individuals will be crucial in understanding the complexities of illegal mining operations, identifying key players and financiers, and developing further strategies to combat this persistent challenge. The police are committed to ensuring that those involved in illegal mining are brought to justice and that the rule of law is upheld.
The intensified efforts of the Ghana Police Service in combating illegal mining in the Western Region demonstrate a strong commitment to protecting the environment and upholding the law. The strategic use of intelligence-led operations, coupled with the seizure of equipment and arrest of suspects, signals a significant escalation in the fight against galamsey. These targeted operations disrupt illegal activities, dismantle operational networks, and contribute to a broader strategy aimed at eradicating illegal mining in Ghana. The police will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders and employ all available resources to combat this menace and preserve the country’s natural heritage for future generations. The success of these operations underlines the importance of continued vigilance, collaboration, and the ongoing development of innovative strategies to combat the evolving nature of illegal mining activities.
