Ashanti Region: 6 excavators seized, 3 foreign nationals arrested for mining along River Anum

The Ashanti Region Anti-Galamsey Task Force has seized six excavators used in illegal mining along River Anum in the Bosome Freho District.

Three foreign nationals—a Chinese, an Indian, and a Burkinabe—were arrested during the operation, which aimed to clear five tributaries of illegal mining activities.

The operation, led by the Ashanti Regional Security Council, involved personnel from the Ghana Police Service, Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Minerals Commission, and Ghana Immigration Service.

Following a two-week ultimatum issued by the Ashanti Regional Minister for illegal miners to vacate forests and river bodies, the task force deployed drones to track mining activities.

The EPA team provided coordinates, enabling security operatives to locate and seize equipment, though some excavators were immovable due to missing parts.

Retired Captain John Jabari, Ashanti Regional Security Coordinator, stated that the task force was “about sixty percent successful” and is considering targeting suppliers of mining equipment.

Illegal mining has severely impacted tributaries of River Anum, including Anuru, Mentu, Adomesu, Bosompomaa, and Nana Mentu.

Nearby farmers have expressed concerns over polluted water sources, forcing them to rely on sachet water while working on their farms.

Community members allege that farmlands have been either sold or forcibly taken for illegal mining. Authorities are now strategizing on how to address mining supply chains contributing to the crisis.