In a bold move to combat illegal mining, the Ashanti Region Anti-Galamsey Task Force has seized six excavators and arrested three foreign nationals – a Chinese, an Indian, and a Burkinabe – for mining along River Anum in the Bosome Freho District.
The joint security task force, comprising personnel from the Ghana Police Service, Environmental Protection Authority, Minerals Commission, and Ghana Immigration Service, aims to rid about five tributaries of the river of illegal miners.
Background of the Operation
The task force was formed after the Ashanti Regional Minister issued a two-week ultimatum for all illegal miners to halt their operations in forests and river bodies.
The minister’s efforts are part of a broader initiative to combat galamsey in the region.
Challenges and Next Steps
According to Ashanti Regional Security Coordinator, Captain (Retired) John Jabari, the operation was about 60% successful, with some excavators unable to be moved due to removed boards.
The task force is now considering extending its activities to persons supplying equipment to illegal miners.
The affected water bodies in the Bosome Freho District include Anuru, Mentu, Adomesu, Bosompomaa, and Nana Mentu, which have become targets of illegal miners in their desperate search for gold.
