The Eastern Regional National Security has impounded an excavator, a low-bed vehicle, and a tipper truck believed to be involved in illegal mining activities in the Atiwa East District.
The seizure was made on Friday, June 13, 2025, during an intelligence-led operation conducted near Ankaase, a known illegal mining hotspot in the region.
The intercepted equipment and vehicles were suspected to be working for a notorious illegal miner, popularly known as Abeiku, who has been under National Security surveillance for some time.
Unfortunately, the prime suspect, Abeiku, was not present at the mining site during the operation. However, the operator of the excavator and the drivers of the impounded vehicles were arrested on the scene.
The suspects, along with the seized equipment, have since been transported to Koforidua to assist in further investigations.
This latest operation forms part of intensified efforts by the Eastern Regional Security Council and National Security operatives to clamp down on illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, which continues to pose serious environmental threats in parts of the region.
Investigations are ongoing to locate the main suspect and dismantle his illegal mining network.
Credit: Obed Ansah
