Police Seize 10 Excavators in Major Galamsey Crackdown Near Ankobra River

In a significant move against illegal mining, the Western Regional Police Command arrested 15 individuals involved in illegal mining activities near the River Ankobra in the Nzema East Municipality on Saturday, 22nd February 2025.

Among the arrested were seven Chinese nationals and eight Ghanaians, all suspected of engaging in “galamsey”—the unlawful small-scale mining practice that has been wreaking havoc on the country’s environment.

The arrests took place in Ablebo and parts of Akango, both located close to the Ankobra River, a site already under environmental threat due to illegal mining operations.

The police operation is part of the government’s ongoing crackdown on illegal mining activities, which has intensified since Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah’s appointment as Minister for Lands and Natural Resources.

A senior police officer emphasized the government’s firm stance on addressing the galamsey menace, declaring, “This is a clear message that illegal mining activities will no longer be tolerated, and those involved will be held accountable.”

The authorities also seized 10 excavators, which were allegedly being used for illegal mining at the site.

The suspects are currently being processed for prosecution as part of the government’s continued efforts to hold illegal miners accountable.

“This operation is just the beginning,” the police official remarked.

“We are committed to rooting out illegal miners and protecting our water bodies from further destruction.”

This latest operation follows closely behind another successful action by National Security operatives, who arrested three Chinese nationals and a Ghanaian accomplice earlier in the week for suspected illegal mining near the Pra River in the Shama District.

These individuals were believed to be contributing to the severe pollution of the river, raising alarm among local communities and environmental activists.

Authorities have assured the public that the government will not back down in its fight against galamsey.

The police also urged local communities to remain vigilant and collaborate with law enforcement by reporting illegal mining activities in order to protect the country’s natural resources.

“The fight against illegal mining is far from over. Anyone involved in these unlawful activities should expect to face the full force of the law,” the police warned.