In a renewed effort to curb illegal mining activities plaguing the Eastern Region, a joint operation by the Ghana Armed Forces and the Eastern Regional Police Command has led to the arrest of seven individuals suspected of engaging in “galamsey”—the local term for illegal small-scale gold mining.
The operation, carried out under the directive of the Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, targeted several hotbeds of illegal mining, including Akyem Kubriso, Atewa West, Akyem Takyiman, Ayensuano, and Osino respectively.
This coordinated swoop, spearheaded by personnel from the First Infantry Battalion and officers from the regional police, marks the latest move in a broader campaign aimed at eradicating the environmental degradation and social disruption caused by galamsey activities.
The Region, known for its lush forests and rivers, has in recent years become a flashpoint for illegal mining, resulting in widespread deforestation, destruction of farmlands, and pollution of water bodies vital for both human consumption and agriculture.
During the operation, the task force seized a trove of mining equipment and weapons believed to be used by the miners.
The items included several excavators, 16 water pumping machines, 24 excavator batteries, a chainsaw machine, two pump-action guns, three single-barrel rifles, multiple washing carpets used for gold panning, and a digital gold scale.
The arrests come as part of an intensified regional offensive against illegal mining, an issue that has posed significant challenges for both environmental sustainability and national security.
The task force reported its findings directly to Awatey, who had earlier met with the joint team from the Ghana Armed Forces’ Southern Command and the Eastern Regional Police.
Addressing the officers, Awatey commended their dedication and emphasized that the mission was far from over.
She underscored the need for sustained presence and vigilance, asserting that the government would not relent in its effort to protect natural resources and enforce the law.
“This operation is not a one-off event,” Rita Awatey declared.
“The devastation caused by galamsey cannot be overstated, and this government is committed to restoring our environment and ensuring that our laws are respected,” she added.
–BY Daniel Bampoe
