Security operatives from a joint task force conducted a raid in the Eastern Region resulting in the arrest of twelve individuals suspected of involvement in illegal mining activities. MyJoyOnline reports that the suspects were apprehended while allegedly operating at sites that caused significant damage to local water bodies and forest covers. The operation forms part of a broader government effort to curb the practice known as galamsey which continues to threaten national environmental security.
According to reports from Citi Newsroom the operation targeted specific coordinates where illegal mining syndicates had recently intensified their work. Officials from the task force noted that the suspects were caught with various pieces of equipment including industrial pumps and gold processing tools. The Ghana Police Service has not yet released the full names of all twelve suspects pending formal charges but confirmed that the individuals are currently being held at a regional police facility.
A Daily Graphic report indicates that the arrests occurred near several major tributaries which have seen rising levels of pollution due to the use of heavy machinery in the riverbeds. Witnesses in the target communities informed security personnel that the syndicate often operated under the cover of night to evade patrols. This information was utilized by the joint task force to coordinate the timing of the successful sting operation.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources stated through a spokesperson that the government remains committed to the total eradication of illegal mining in designated red zones. While the MyJoyOnline report highlights the direct impact on water bodies legal experts noted that the suspects will likely face charges under the Minerals and Mining Amendment Act. The case is expected to be mentioned at a circuit court once dockets are finalized by the prosecution team.