Chinese National, Two others nabbed in 'Galamsey' raid

Three suspected illegal miners were arrested in Nyame-Bekyere. One of them is a Chinese national. This has angered local residents. They accuse Michael Kwadwo Peprah of orchestrating the operation. They believe he used a legitimate mining company as a cover.

The arrests happened during a coordinated operation. National Democratic Congress (NDC) executives and local security personnel were involved. Residents welcomed the action, as they have long complained about illegal mining's impact. They are concerned about environmental destruction and insecurity in their area.

Residents shared their experiences with the illegal miners. Some recalled how the miners fired gunshots at them. This happened after they raised concerns about pollution and degradation of water bodies.

“They shot and injured some of us,” one resident said, shaken by the memory. “Others had to flee into the bushes.”

The arrests have led to more accusations against Peprah. Residents claim he is politically connected and complicit in illegal mining activities. He is the President of the National Concerned Association of Small-Scale Miners, Ghana (NCSSMAG). They allege he sent suspects to the site under false pretenses.

“This guy is a criminal,” another resident stated angrily. “He’s been at the center of this galamsey mess for years.”

They accuse him of recruiting people and extorting money while pretending to fight illegal mining. Residents demand his immediate arrest and prosecution. They believe his freedom undermines efforts against illegal mining in their community.