National Security operatives conducted a dawn raid in the Eastern Region to dismantle an alleged illegal mining ring operating within the Atiwa West District. According to a Citi Newsroom report, the operation resulted in the arrest of sixteen individuals found at the site. The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources confirmed through an official statement that the suspects were engaged in mining activities along the banks of the Pra River without valid permits.
A Daily Graphic report states that the group consists of thirteen Ghanaian citizens and three foreign nationals. The Ghanaian Times indicated that security personnel intercepted the suspects while they were allegedly using heavy machinery to excavate mineral resources. The suspects remain in custody while the Ghana Police Service processes them for potential charges related to environmental degradation and mining law violations.
During the coordinated operation, security forces impounded several items used in the suspected illegal activities. A report from GhanaWeb says that operatives seized eight water pumping machines and two industrial generators. The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources noted that the equipment was moved to a secure location for evidentiary purposes in upcoming court proceedings.
While the initial Citi Newsroom report mentioned fifteen arrests, later updates from the Ghana News Agency clarified that sixteen individuals were processed. The suspects are expected to appear before a circuit court once the initial investigation is completed. Sources within the National Security Secretariat told the Daily Graphic that surveillance on the Pra River will continue to deter unauthorized mining operations in the region.