The Western Central Police Command has arrested twenty-two (22) individuals for engaging in illegal mining activities in parts of the Western Region.
The operation, carried out on Monday, April 8, 2025, targeted mining sites at Dominase Nkwanta, Adjakaa Manso, and surrounding areas known to be hotspots for illegal mining, locally referred to as “galamsey.”
The suspects in custody include Albert Adu Bonsra, Stephen Kwakye, Richard Atigah, Yaw Menanyi, Al-Mustapha Alidu, Jutu Francis, Hakitu Zibo, Nana Yaw Boakye, Kwesi Evans, Isaac Cobby, Bashiru Ali, Atta Francis, Ayew Sali, Fataw Gariba, Kwame Emmanuel, Kwesi Francis, Abapor Frank, Wasah Moses, Bukari Haruna, Abdulai Lukman, Yeboah Rashid, and Alkainu Hassan.
During the raid, the police retrieved eleven (11) water pumping machines, seven (7) shovels, one pickaxe, and two (2) Chamfan machines used in illegal gold mining operations.
The suspects are currently in police custody and are being processed for court to face charges in accordance with Ghana’s mining and environmental laws.
Police authorities say the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on illegal mining, which continues to threaten water bodies, farmlands, and forest reserves in the region.
The Western Central Police Command has reaffirmed its resolve to work with relevant stakeholders to rid the region of illegal mining operations and protect Ghana’s natural resources.
