Police Arrests 20 Illegal Miners in 3-Day Crackdown

Police Arrest 20 Illegal Miners in Central Region

The Central North Regional Police Command arrested 20 illegal miners. This occurred over three days in the Upper East and West Districts.

The Anti-Galamsey Operations Team led these efforts. They confiscated four excavators, eight pumping machines, and eight dredging machines. The police also burned eight pieces of illegal mining equipment found at the sites.

Additionally, the Command seeks public help to find three suspects. They are Kwesi Atta, Aboagye DaCosta, and Apeti Abass. These individuals are suspected of renting equipment to illegal miners along the Offin River.

The police cannot remove or dismantle the chanfans from the river. They want to prevent these machines from being reused by miners. All suspects are cooperating with investigators and will face prosecution.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Abraham Acquaye spoke to the Ghana News Agency. He said these operations align with Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohunu’s commitment to end illegal mining.

On Sunday, May 25, 2025, he led an operation in Ebenezer community. This suburb is part of Diaso in the Upper Denkyira West District. The operation resulted in eight arrests: Kwame Joe (45), Yaw Mireku (28), Mark Baba (18), Kofi Donkor (18), Nana Kwame (26), Yaw Marfo (30), Okyere David (18), and Kwaku Asante (28).

DCOP Acquaye reported that two excavators were seized during this operation. A cylinder machine was taken to Diaso Police Station. Eight water pumping machines were moved to the Central North Regional headquarters in Assin Fosu.

On Thursday, May 29, more arrests occurred along the River Offin. Illegal miners Samuel Ankamah and Daniel Agyemang were operating excavators there.

On Friday, May 30, a joint operation targeted illegal mining in Dunkwa Township. Miners used eight dredgers known as “tototo.” Despite attempts to escape by swimming across the river, police arrested ten miners including Kwesi Attey and Anane Sampson.

Recovered items included black residue suspected to be mining-related materials and wooden boards found along the riverbank.

Over three months, following IGP directives, a dedicated taskforce has been established against illegal mining and organized crime in the region. The specialized Operations Team has conducted many successful missions resulting in numerous arrests and seizures.

Despite losing Constable Dogbe during an April operation, Commander Acquaye reaffirmed their commitment to enforcing laws and protecting natural resources.

The Command urged residents in affected areas to stop illegal mining due to its environmental harm. Such activities contaminate water sources and damage ecosystems.

They warned that offenders would face arrest and prosecution for their actions. Community members are encouraged to report illegal mining activities for regional peace and security.