The Inspector-General of Police’s Special Anti-Galamsey Task Force clashed with illegal miners at Bonteso in the Ashanti Region on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, overpowering violent resistance and arresting four suspects, including the local assemblyman.
The incident occurred at about 11:30 a.m. during a routine patrol when the task force discovered an excavator actively engaged in illegal mining, causing extensive environmental damage.
The team moved to seize the machine, but as it was being loaded, a group of miners quickly mobilised, allegedly led by the assemblyman, who was seen urging them to attack the police.
Stones and other objects were hurled at the officers as the group threatened bloodshed to stop the removal of the excavator.
Tensions escalated when two individuals were spotted firing pump-action guns, posing a serious threat to the safety of the officers.
In the ensuing confrontation, ASP Bawah Abdul Jalil and G/Sgt. Agblekpe Mawuena Yao sustained injuries to the head, mouth, and leg.
The miners then blocked all exit routes, forcing the task force to clear the blockade while under live fire.
The officers returned fire to neutralise the threat, eventually dispersing the crowd and regaining control of the area. Four suspects — Akwesi Amponsah, Osei Vasco, Assemblyman Patrick Asare, and Owusu Alexander — were arrested.
The seized excavator was transported to the Manso Adubia Police Station for safekeeping, while another machine was left at the site due to the security threat.
The suspects are being processed for transfer to Accra for further action.
