A court in Tarkwa has sentenced three individuals to 15 years in prison. The men were convicted of illegal mining, also called galamsey.
The sentences include hard labor, a judge ruled.
The convictions stem from their involvement in mining activities in the Western Region.
Illegal mining causes damage to land and water bodies. The practice is against Ghana's laws.
The court's decision aims to deter others from similar crimes. Law enforcement continues to target illegal mining operations across the country.