7 Illegal Miners Arraigned in Sekondi Special Court for Galamsey Activities

Seven individuals accused of illegal mining activities, also known as “Galamsey,” have been arraigned before the Sekondi Special Court for Illegal Mining.

The Western Central Regional Police Command brought the accused— Ibrahim Dauda, Michael Tettey Komlorm, Douglas Ayambila, Elvis Aborta, Nsoh Oto (known as Agorogo), Kwadwo George (known as Sergio), and Emmanuel Van (known as Atta)—before the court on charges of conspiracy to commit a crime and engaging in mining without a license.

The accused individuals were remanded in custody and are scheduled to reappear before the court on April 17, 2025.

Their arrest is part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on illegal mining, which has had severe environmental and social consequences across the country.

In a related development, earlier this week, the police arrested 11 individuals, including four Chinese nationals and seven Ghanaians, for engaging in illegal mining activities along the banks of the Bonsa River and near Wassa Agona.

This incident highlights the increasing involvement of foreign nationals in the illegal mining sector, a trend that has raised concerns about the sustainability of Ghana’s environment and resources.

Additionally, two more Chinese nationals—Huan Ciongjian (38) and Ling Yong (56)—were arrested for their involvement in illegal mining activities along the Bonsa River.

All foreign nationals arrested in these operations have been handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service for further investigation and action.

The Ghanaian government has been stepping up its efforts to combat illegal mining, which has caused widespread environmental damage, including deforestation and water pollution.

As part of these efforts, the Special Court for Illegal Mining was established to handle cases related to this issue.

The authorities are hoping that the swift prosecution of these individuals will send a strong message to others involved in similar activities.