Wa West: Seven suspected galamseyers arraigned for polluting Black Volta

The Principal State Attorney for the Upper West Region, Mr. Saeed Abdul Shakur, confirmed the arrest of seven individuals. They were arrested for illegal mining along the Black Volta River in Wa West District. The suspects have been brought before the Wa District Court to assist with ongoing investigations.

This follows a successful operation by the Upper West Regional Police Command on April 10, 2025. The police arrested seven people engaged in illegal mining activities in Chiantanga community near Dorimon. Mr. Abdul Shakur stated, “Today, Sunday, April 13, I arraigned 7 persons (5 males and 2 females) before the district court.”

Those arrested include Sabugu Razak, Ibrahim Zuberu, Alex Amedzake, John Cobblah, Promise Dufe, Angelina Akpese, and Rebecca Tumawu. The raid also resulted in significant seizures. Authorities confiscated ten Changfang mining machines and two unregistered tricycles.

They also seized a motorbike with registration numbers M-24-NR 6010 and M-23-UW 4413. Additionally, two unregistered Haojue and Apsonic motorbikes were taken. Six student mattresses believed to be used by miners were also seized.

The suspects are currently in police custody and assisting with investigations. Authorities plan to prosecute them according to the law once investigations are complete. This operation is part of efforts to combat illegal mining activities threatening major water bodies like the Black Volta.

The Regional Police Command is committed to preserving the environment and ensuring community safety. Residents along the Black Volta have raised concerns about pollution from illegal mining activities. These activities have been linked to rising insecurity and land degradation in Wa West District.