Military strikes against galamsey, three Chanfans destroyed on Birim River

Accra, Ghana - October 10, 2024 - The Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners has collaborated with the military to seize and destroy equipment used in illegal mining, marking a significant escalation in the fight against galamsey. The military-led task force has begun operations in the Eastern Region, specifically targeting the Birim River, which has suffered extensive pollution due to galamsey.

Col. Eric Tenadu, Commander of the Operation Halt Task Force, vowed to clear water bodies of illegal mining activities. "We are launching this operation to make sure that we clear our water bodies," he stated. "Whether registered or unregistered, we don’t care, our concern is the water body, so far as you are close to the water body, you are our target."

''We are confident that the water bodies will start to regain their natural state'', he added.

The operation follows intense public pressure, fueled by media coverage and advocacy from civil society organizations. The government's deployment of military forces aims to address the illegal mining crisis and restore Ghana's natural resources.

The military's presence will be maintained in targeted areas for the next two weeks, with the goal of preventing miners from resuming operations. The success of the operation will be crucial in reviving affected rivers, such as the Birim, and preventing further environmental degradation.

Source: Lead News Online