In a bold and decisive move, 56 individuals have been arrested for their involvement in illegal mining activities in Kadadwen, Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality, as part of an extensive operation led by the Western Regional Security Council. This crackdown is aimed at curbing the devastating environmental and social impacts of illegal mining that have plagued the region.
The operation, which took place on Thursday, March 13, saw personnel from the Western Naval Command, the Second Infantry Battalion, and the local police forces working in unison to dismantle illegal mining operations in key areas.
These included Ghana Rubber Company Ltd.’s Site Six, North Palm Oil Plantation, Kadadwen, and parts of the Mpohor District.
In addition to arresting the suspects, the security forces seized and destroyed 25 Changfang machines—often used for illegal mining. They also confiscated a range of equipment, including 3 motorbikes, 9 pumping machines, 3 excavators, and 3 pay-loaders from areas within Ahanta West Municipality and Mpohor District.
The suspects, made up of 47 males and 9 females, were apprehended from 7 different groups and have been handed over to the Western Regional Police Command for further investigation and processing. Brigadier General Musa Whajah, the National Liaison Officer who led the operation, emphasized that this operation marked a shift in tactics. “This time, we are taking a more methodical approach. The suspects will be thoroughly screened by the police, and those found guilty will face legal action in court,” he stated, expressing his commitment to combating the destructive effects of illegal mining.
This major operation represents a significant step towards addressing illegal mining in the region, sending a strong message that the authorities are determined to tackle this issue head-on, with further legal action on the horizon.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Gumedzo Isaac Acheampong
