In the latest move by security forces to clamp down on illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey”, the Central North Regional Police Command has arrested five individuals, including three Chinese nationals, for engaging in unlawful mining operations on River Fum, located at Assin Ayitey in the Assin North District.
The suspects, identified as Duut Kwabena Sakakba (38), Douglas Nyamekye (36), Ma Jian (37), Ma Young (31), and Ma Haibi (54), were apprehended on April 7, 2025, during a targeted operation by the Special Anti-Galamsey Taskforce under the Central North Police Command.
The arrests mark a significant step in the ongoing nationwide campaign to halt the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining activities.
The operation, according to a press statement signed by ASP Francis Onyina of the Public Affairs Directorate, Regional Police Headquarters, Central North Region (Ref: CNR/HQPAD.70V.1/02), also led to the identification of two heavy-duty excavators actively being used on the site.
The machines, with chassis numbers SY 6HKI-XABEA-01-C3 and SWE365E00762, were found operating along the riverbanks.
Despite the excavator operators managing to flee the scene with the ignition keys, police say they are working to recover the equipment and tow it to a secure holding location.
Investigations have also commenced to identify and locate the owners of the excavators, who will be prosecuted accordingly.
In addition to the machinery, a Toyota Hilux pickup van with registration number GE 2743-13 was impounded at the site as part of the operation.
The police have assured the public that the suspects are in custody and will be processed for court, where they are expected to face charges related to illegal mining under Ghanaian law.
“The suspects… are currently in Police custody being processed to be put before the law court to face justice,” ASP Onyina stated.
-BY Issah Olegor
