Police Crack Down on Galamsey in Western Region, 15 Arrested

Western Region, Ghana -23 Feb, 2025 - In a bold move to combat illegal mining, the Western Regional Police Command has raided an illicit mining enclave in Avelebo and Akango in the Evalue Ajomoro-Gwira District of the Western Region and arrested 15 individuals, including 7 foreign nationals and 8 Ghanaian miners.

According to reports, the illegal miners had taken over the Evalue Jomoro enclave, engaging in mining activities without proper authorization and polluting the Ankobra River in the process.

The police seized 10 excavators and other equipment, which will be used as evidence to prosecute the offenders.

The Ankobra River, which flows through the Western Region, is a vital source of water for local communities and supports a diverse range of aquatic life. However, the activities of illegal miners have threatened the river's ecosystem, highlighting the need for urgent action to protect the environment.

The Western Regional Police Command's crackdown on illegal mining is part of a broader effort by the Ghanaian government to address the issue. In recent years, the government has implemented various measures to combat illegal mining, including the deployment of military personnel to mining areas and the establishment of a task force to monitor mining activities.

As the prosecution of the arrested individuals proceeds, the Western Regional Police Command has warned that it will continue to take action against those engaging in illegal mining activities, in order to protect the environment and ensure that mining is carried out in a responsible and sustainable manner.

Source: Lead News Online