Galamsey Site Raid Leads To Arrest of 7 Foreigners, 8 Ghanaians In Western Region

The Evalue Ajomoro-Gwira District saw a significant raid in Avelebo and Akango as a result of the Western Regional Police Command’s stepped-up campaign against illicit mining.

Fifteen alleged miners were arrested as a result of the operation, including eight Ghanaians and seven foreigners.

Ten excavators and other mining equipment used for illicit activities were also seized by police during the raid.

The miners had apparently taken over significant parts of land in the enclave, participating in unauthorized mining activities that had led to severe environmental damage, notably the polluting of the Ankobra River.

Speaking on the operation, officials said that the excavators and other equipment that were seized would be used as evidence in court to help the offenders be prosecuted.

The raid is a component of a larger initiative to combat illicit mining, which has grown to be a significant economic and environmental issue in the area.

Additionally, the effort seeks to restore farmlands and waterways that have been devastated by careless mining operations.

Since the Ankobra River is a significant source of drinking water and a source of income for many towns, many have expressed dissatisfaction about the difficulty in obtaining clean water as a result of the contamination.

Security agencies will continue to find and prosecute those found guilty, thus authorities have warned illicit miners to stop their activities.