Western Region Authorities Crack Down on Illegal Mining, Arrest 56, Destroy Equipment
Western Region Authorities Crack Down on Illegal Mining, Arrest 56, Destroy Equipment
A major security operation targeting illegal mining in the Western Region has led to the arrest of 56 individuals and the destruction of 25 changfang machines used for illicit gold extraction.
The crackdown, carried out by the Western Regional Security Council (REGSEC) under the directive of Regional Minister Joseph Nelson, forms part of ongoing efforts to curb the environmental devastation caused by illegal mining activities.
The operation, conducted on Thursday, March 13, 2025, involved personnel from the Western Naval Command, the Second Infantry Battalion, and the police. Security forces raided known illegal mining hotspots, including farmlands belonging to Ghana Rubber Estate Company Ltd (GREL), North Palm Oil Plantation, Kadadwen, and areas in the Mpohor District.
During the swoop, 47 men and 9 women were apprehended from seven different groups operating in the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality.
The security team also confiscated several pieces of equipment, including three excavators, three pay-loaders, nine pumping machines, and three motorbikes from sites in the Ahanta West Municipality and Mpohor District. The 25 changfang machines seized were set ablaze to prevent their reuse.
Brigadier General Musah Whajah (rtd), the National Security Liaison Officer assigned by REGSEC, led the operation. He highlighted the severe impact of illegal mining on the environment and stressed the commitment of the security agencies to halting its spread.
In a separate but related development, a joint Rapid Response Team from the Tarkwa and Takoradi Forest Districts of the Forestry Commission arrested eight illegal miners in the Subri Forest Reserve on Wednesday, March 12. Seven motorcycles and three tricycles were seized during the operation.
All arrested individuals have been handed over to the Western Regional Police Command for further investigation and possible prosecution. Meanwhile, Regional Minister Joseph Nelson has reaffirmed his determination to take decisive action against illegal mining and the destruction of natural resources in the region.
Story by Adwoa S. Danso
