Police cracks down on illegal mining, 26 arrested in major galamsey bust near Samreboi

The Ghana Police conducted a major operation against illegal mining. They arrested twenty-six individuals near Samreboi in the Western Region.

This raid is part of a nationwide crackdown on galamsey. Galamsey is an illegal mining activity harming Ghana’s environment and water bodies.

The operation was led by the Police Intelligence Directorate. They worked with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), National Operations Directorate (NOD), and Formed Police Unit (FPU).

Acting on intelligence, officers raided the site and arrested suspects. The group included eight Chinese nationals and eighteen Ghanaians operating in a protected reserve.

Police sources say the site is linked to Akonta Mining Company. This company is owned by Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi. His name often comes up in discussions about illegal mining.

The environmental damage was clear at the site. Large areas were stripped of vegetation, and water bodies were polluted with mining sludge. The once lush reserve now shows signs of severe degradation.

During the operation, police seized various tools and machinery. This included six pump-action guns with over 150 rounds of ammunition, six water pumping machines, three excavators, three payloaders, six machetes, two Toyota pickup trucks, and one Toyota RAV4.

The suspects are currently in custody. They are expected to appear in court soon.

This operation reflects the commitment of Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno. It aims to combat illegal mining and restore Ghana’s natural ecosystems while bringing offenders to justice.