The Inspector General of Police (IGP) has launched a major operation targeting illegal mining activities in the Bui area, resulting in the arrest of 24 individuals, including 14 Chinese nationals and 10 Ghanaians.
The coordinated raid, carried out by a team of six senior police officers and 130 personnel, was conducted at an illegal mining site in Subinso, which has been linked to extensive environmental degradation of the Bui enclave.
During the operation, the police recovered four pump-action guns, three pickup vehicles believed to belong to the Chinese nationals, and two excavators.
Authorities are also in the process of retrieving an additional nine excavators that were abandoned at the site by fleeing miners.
The police team also identified another suspected illegal mining hub nearby, reportedly operated by Chinese nationals.
However, the suspects evaded arrest after allegedly being tipped off about the incoming raid.
All arrested individuals and seized items have been transported to the Bono Regional Police Headquarters and are expected to be moved to Accra for further investigation and prosecution.
The operation, part of a week-long anti-galamsey enforcement initiative, underscores the Ghana Police Service’s renewed commitment to combating illegal mining and protecting the country’s natural resources.
