IGP Shakes Up Police Ranks in Galamsey Zones

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has announced a sweeping reshuffle of Police Commanders stationed in areas notorious for illegal mining, also known as galamsey, as the Ghana Police Service intensifies its crackdown on the illegal activity.

This strategic move, which affects Divisional and District Commanders across the Eastern South, Western, and Western North regions, is part of the IGP’s renewed commitment to tackling the environmental crisis caused by galamsey.

According to officials, this is just the beginning. More changes are expected in the coming weeks as the Police Service ramps up enforcement efforts in the worst-affected communities.

The reshuffle is aimed at revitalizing anti-galamsey efforts by deploying experienced and proactive officers to high-risk zones. Illegal mining has continued to threaten the country’s forests, farmlands, and vital water bodies like the Tano and Pra rivers.

A senior officer involved in the reshuffle noted, “This is not just about switching officers. It’s about sending a clear message—we are serious about stopping illegal mining and protecting our environment.”

In a related development, the Police Service carried out a major breakthrough during a special four-day anti-galamsey operation within the Samreboi area of the Western Region from April 17. The intelligence-led raid led to the arrest of 47 individuals suspected of engaging in illegal mining.

The suspects, including 39 Ghanaians and 8 Chinese nationals—four of whom are women—were arrested along the Tano River and within the Aboi, Subri, and Nimiri forest zones, areas long plagued by illegal mining operations.

The operation also saw the seizure of a large haul of mining equipment and vehicles. Among the items retrieved were 17 excavators, a bulldozer, four motorbikes, two Toyota Hilux pickups, a Rav4 SUV, four pump-action guns, one single-barrel gun, 54 live BB cartridges, and eight pumping machines.

All suspects are currently in police custody and will soon be processed through the legal system. The equipment and ammunition seized are being held as evidence.

The IGP has reiterated his commitment to preserving Ghana’s natural resources and called on the public to support the Police Service in this national fight against galamsey.

“Together, we can protect our land and water for the generations to come,” Mr. Yohuno urged.