The Western Central Regional Police Command has launched a renewed offensive against illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey,” resulting in the apprehension of 17 individuals and the confiscation of vital mining equipment during two separate intelligence-led operations. These operations, conducted on Thursday in the communities of Adamaso and Wassa Mamieso, both known hotspots for illegal mining, underscore the authorities’ commitment to combatting this environmentally destructive practice. The arrests and seizures represent a significant step in the ongoing battle against galamsey, which poses a severe threat to Ghana’s natural resources.
The first operation, executed in Adamaso, led to the arrest of 12 individuals actively engaged in illegal mining activities. The suspects, ranging in age from 19 to 45, were apprehended while operating illegal mining equipment. Their identities were revealed as Abraham Antwi, Jeremiah Adusei, Eric Martey, George Amoah, Misasa Jonas, Larry Ndaaso, Ezekiel Dome, Bismark Adu, Alex Sabla, Godfrey Acheampong, Ebenezer Mensah, and Emmanuel Appiah. Along with the arrests, authorities confiscated five pumping machines, vital tools used in the illegal extraction of minerals, further disrupting the operations of the illegal miners.
The second operation, conducted near the Mamie River in Wassa Mamieso, resulted in the arrest of five additional suspects: Junior Simon, Stephen Tetteh, Samuel Kwarteng, Matthew Wofatey, and Seidu Ayigbe. In this instance, the police seized a ‘Sunny Excavator 215 Control Board,’ a crucial component of the heavy machinery frequently employed in large-scale illegal mining operations. This seizure signifies a blow to the logistical capabilities of the illegal miners, hindering their ability to carry out extensive environmental damage.
All 17 suspects are currently in police custody, assisting with ongoing investigations. The seized equipment, including the pumping machines and the excavator control board, has been retained as evidence, bolstering the case against the apprehended individuals. These arrests and seizures signify a successful effort by law enforcement to disrupt illegal mining operations and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
The recent operations form part of a broader, sustained effort by Ghanaian authorities to curb the devastating effects of galamsey on the nation’s environment. Illegal mining activities have led to widespread deforestation, pollution of water bodies, and destruction of arable land, posing a significant threat to the country’s ecological balance and long-term sustainability. The continued degradation of water resources is of particular concern, as it impacts access to clean drinking water and jeopardizes the livelihoods of communities dependent on these resources.
These focused operations highlight the commitment of the Western Central Regional Police Command to combat illegal mining and protect Ghana’s precious natural resources. The arrests and seizures serve as a deterrent to those involved in galamsey and send a strong message that such activities will not be tolerated. The authorities’ ongoing efforts to dismantle illegal mining operations are crucial for preserving the environment, safeguarding public health, and ensuring the sustainable development of the nation. This proactive approach, combined with intelligence gathering and community engagement, is essential to effectively address the complex challenge posed by galamsey. The long-term success of these efforts will depend on continued vigilance, robust enforcement, and the implementation of comprehensive strategies to address the root causes of illegal mining, including poverty and lack of alternative livelihood opportunities.
