Members of the military led task force known as Operation Halt arrested twelve individuals suspected of engaging in illegal mining activities along the Pra River basin. The operation targeted sites where unauthorized gold mining has significantly impacted water quality and local ecosystems. According to a Citi Newsroom report the suspects were apprehended during a surprise sweep of the Eastern Region locations.
During the exercise the task force identified and decommissioned several pieces of heavy machinery found at the sites. Military officials confirmed that multiple excavators and water pumping machines were neutralized to prevent further degradation of the riverbanks. This action follows a renewed government mandate to clear all mining activities from water bodies and forest reserves within the country.
The suspects were transported to a regional police facility for further interrogation and processing. A Daily Graphic report on similar enforcement activities indicates that the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources continues to supervise these military interventions to deter illegal miners. The twelve individuals are expected to face charges related to violating the Minerals and Mining Act as amended.
While the identities of the twelve arrested persons have not yet been officially released by the Ghana Armed Forces the task force remains active in the area. A report from Channel One TV notes that Operation Halt personnel are maintaining a presence along the Pra River to monitor for any returning miners. Local authorities have been urged to provide information to assist in the ongoing crackdown on environmental crimes.