The Ellembelle District Police Command, in a joint operation with the local anti-galamsey task force, has arrested 11 individuals suspected of engaging in illegal mining activities at Mile 3 near Teleku-Bokazo in the Western Region.
The group includes two Chinese nationals and nine Ghanaians, who reportedly posed as national security personnel. The arrest was made during a coordinated swoop by the security team established by the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Ellembelle, Mr Joseph Agyekum.
The operation forms part of the national crackdown on illegal mining—commonly referred to as galamsey—led by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.
Speaking on the development, Mr Agyekum reaffirmed the district’s determination to root out illegal mining and promote responsible resource extraction.
“Ellembelle is on track to becoming a model for responsible mining. We are determined to end the eight-year galamsey challenge in our district and will act steadily and without external pressure to ensure that goal,” he stated.
He emphasized that the recent arrests send a strong signal to those flouting the country’s mining laws, assuring that enforcement will be sustained without fear or favour.
During the raid, authorities also impounded four excavators and seized firearms allegedly used by the suspects.
Mr Agyekum added that the District Assembly would continue to collaborate with security agencies to enforce mining regulations and safeguard the environment from further degradation.
