The Ghana Police Service has launched a robust nationwide operation targeting illegal mining activities, commonly known as “galamsey,” resulting in the arrest of 208 suspects and the seizure of significant mining equipment and weaponry. This intensified crackdown, conducted between March and May 2025, underscores the government’s renewed commitment to protecting the country’s vital water resources and preserving its natural environment. The operations focused on known galamsey hotspots across several regions, yielding substantial results, particularly in the Western Region, a notorious hub for illegal mining. The operation’s success highlights the police’s resolve to dismantle these illicit operations and bring perpetrators to justice.
The Western Region experienced the most significant impact of the operation, with a major sweep around Samreboi, along the Tano River, and other surrounding communities netting 58 arrests, comprising 50 Ghanaians and eight Chinese nationals. This area has long been plagued by illegal mining activities, contributing to severe environmental degradation, including water pollution and deforestation. The seizure of 85 excavators and three bulldozers in this single operation represents a substantial blow to the illegal mining infrastructure in the region, demonstrating the effectiveness of the targeted approach. The Western Regional Police Command also conducted separate operations, resulting in further arrests and equipment seizures, contributing to the overall success of the campaign.
Beyond the Western Region, the police operation extended its reach across other affected areas. In the Eastern South Region, 24 suspects, including a Burkinabe national, were apprehended. The seizure of five excavators and various weapons, including single-barrel and pump-action guns, highlights the often-violent nature of illegal mining operations and the associated security risks. Meanwhile, in the Upper West region, seven Ghanaians were arrested, and 11 changfangs (a type of motorized transport used in mining), along with three motorbikes, were impounded. These arrests and seizures demonstrate the geographical breadth of the operation and the police’s commitment to addressing illegal mining across the country.
The Western Central Command also played a crucial role in the nationwide operation, arresting 85 suspects, including 76 Ghanaians and nine Chinese nationals, and recovering 11 excavators. The presence of foreign nationals among those arrested underscores the international dimension of illegal mining and its organized nature. Similarly, the Eastern North Command apprehended 15 suspects, including one Chinese national, and confiscated various excavator components, highlighting the sophisticated nature of these illicit operations. The collective efforts across various police commands demonstrate a coordinated and strategic approach to tackling the widespread problem of illegal mining.
The nationwide crackdown yielded a substantial haul of illegal mining equipment, including 99 excavators, three bulldozers, 11 changfangs, and several vehicles, motorbikes, tricycles, generators, gold detectors, and pumping machines. Furthermore, the seizure of firearms, including pump-action guns, single-barrel guns, and a pistol, emphasizes the link between illegal mining and other criminal activities, posing a significant threat to public safety. The confiscated equipment will be used as evidence in ongoing legal proceedings against the arrested individuals, contributing to the prosecution’s case and serving as a deterrent to further illegal mining activities.
All 208 suspects apprehended during the nationwide operation are currently facing legal proceedings, marking a crucial step towards accountability and justice. The Ghana Police Service has reaffirmed its unwavering dedication to combating illegal mining and called upon the public to actively support their efforts in safeguarding the nation’s environment and natural resources. This public appeal emphasizes the importance of community involvement and collaboration in addressing this complex issue. The success of the recent operation sends a strong message to those involved in illegal mining that their activities will not be tolerated, and the authorities are committed to enforcing the law and protecting Ghana’s precious natural heritage.
