As part of the government’s intensified efforts to combat illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, the Ghana Police Service has arrested 26 individuals operating unlawfully in a forest reserve near Samreboi in the Western Region.
The operation, supported by intelligence, forms part of a national initiative to protect Ghana’s natural resources from the devastating effects of galamsey. The coordinated raid involved specialized units from the Police Intelligence Directorate, Criminal Investigations Department (CID), the National Operations Directorate, and the Formed Police Unit.
During the raid, six Chinese nationals, two Koreans, and 18 Ghanaians were apprehended for engaging in illegal mining activities within the protected area. Several weapons and mining tools were seized at the site, including pump-action guns, water pumps, excavators, payloaders, machetes, and vehicles. Eight excavators were confiscated, although five others had to be left behind due to transport challenges.
Authorities also recovered two Toyota Hilux pickups, a Toyota RAV4, four motorbikes, and other mining-related equipment, indicating a well-established illegal operation. The environmental impact of the mining was severe, with large tracts of land devastated and water bodies heavily polluted.
The suspects are currently in police custody and will face legal prosecution in accordance with Ghanaian law.
The Inspector General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, reiterated the police’s commitment to supporting the government’s broader campaign against illegal mining. He emphasized that the security services remain resolute in their mission to safeguard the environment and preserve the country’s natural resources for future generations.
Authorities have also linked the mining site to Akonta Mining Company, owned by Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi—a name that has frequently come up in national conversations surrounding illegal mining activities.
This operation reflects the government’s renewed commitment to ending galamsey and holding all perpetrators accountable, regardless of status or background
