In a significant operation, 56 individuals have been arrested and handed over to the Western Regional Police Command for their involvement in illegal mining activities in Kadadwen, Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality.
The crackdown, which took place on Thursday, March 13, was part of a targeted operation by the Western Regional Security Council to combat illegal mining in the region.
The operation, led by Brigadier General Musa Whajah, National Liaison Officer, resulted in the seizure and destruction of 25 changfang machines, as well as various equipment, including motorbikes, pumping machines, excavators, and pay-loaders.
The suspects, comprising 47 males and 9 females from 7 different groups, will be screened by the police, and those found culpable will face court action.
The Western Regional Security Council’s efforts aim to address the devastating environmental and community impacts of illegal mining in the region.
In a separate operation, a joint Rapid Response Team from the Tarkwa and Takoradi Forest District of the Forestry Commission arrested 8 illegal miners and seized 7 motorcycles and 3 tricycles from the Subri Forest Reserve on Wednesday, March 12.
All suspects have been handed over to the Western Regional Police Command for further investigations.
The operation is a significant step towards combating illegal mining in the region and ensuring environmental sustainability.
