In a significant crackdown on illegal mining activities, an intelligence-led operation by the Ghana Police Service, in collaboration with the Forestry Commission, resulted in the seizure of excavators and the arrest of multiple individuals associated with unlawful mining operations allegedly linked to Akonta Mining, a company tied to Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman, Chairman Wontumi.
The operation, conducted on the eve of Good Friday, followed a working visit by officials from the Forestry Commission and the Police to the Ashanti Region. It targeted six illegal mining sites in the Samreboi area, lasting over 12 hours and beginning at 5:00 AM. Authorities apprehended six Chinese nationals, two Koreans, and eighteen Ghanaians suspected of illegal mining activities.
The operation yielded impressive results, including the seizure of:
- Eight excavators, with five others left abandoned due to mobility issues
- Two Toyota Hilux pick-up vehicles
- One Toyota RAV4
- Four motorbikes
- A cache of mining equipment
The successful operation has garnered widespread praise, particularly for the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, and the Inspector General of Police for their steadfast support and commitment.
“All arrested individuals were transported to Accra for further investigations and prosecution,” officials confirmed.
The Forestry Commission reiterated that the fight against illegal mining, or galamsey, is ongoing. “We must protect our water bodies, forest reserves, and preserve the earth. This is a continuous battle, and we have no intention of giving up,” stated a commission official.
This latest operation marks a crucial milestone in the government’s efforts to combat illegal mining and safeguard Ghana’s natural resources for future generations.
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