KEY POINTS
- Illegal miners arrested in the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve.
- Authorities seized three excavators used for illegal mining.
- Suspects handed to Enchi Police for prosecution.
A group involved in illicit mining in Ghana’s Western Region’s Tano Anwia Forest Reserve has been arrested by the Forestry Commission. JoyNews, which raised awareness of the group’s ongoing mining operations in spite of a previous military raid, prompted the arrests.
Illegal miners evade initial raid but face fresh arrests
The group had previously escaped a joint military and Rapid Response raid that was aimed at illegal mining camps in the jungle, officials said. The group continued its mining operations in spite of the operation, endangering the integrity of the protected forest reserve even more. Deforestation, soil erosion, and water pollution are only a few of the serious environmental dangers posed by the illicit activities, which nonetheless have an impact on the ecosystems and communities nearby.
Three Chinese excavators and eight Ghanaian collaborators made up the total of 11 people arrested throughout the operation. Since then, the suspects have been turned over to the Enchi District Police for additional examination.
Along with the arrests, three excavators thought to have been involved in the illicit mining operations were seized by the authorities. The other two excavators are anticipated to be moved shortly, while one has already been taken to the Enchi District Assembly for safekeeping. The equipment’s seizure is an important step in stopping the unlawful activity and stopping additional environmental damage.
Suspects handed over to police as investigations continue
According to Joynews, the police have received a formal complaint, and they are currently conducting investigations. Authorities have made it clear that anyone found guilty will face legal action in line with Ghana’s environmental and mining regulations.
The Forestry Commission has reaffirmed its dedication to protecting Ghana’s natural resources and making sure that illicit activity does not affect the nation’s forest reserves. Local communities have also been urged by officials to assist in the fight against illicit mining by informing the appropriate authorities of any suspicious activity.
In Ghana, illegal mining, sometimes known as “galamsey,” is still a significant problem with far-reaching effects on the environment and the economy. To stop the practice, the government has put in place a number of measures, such as community engagement programs, policy changes, and military-led actions.
The recent apprehensions highlight the continuous endeavors to implement these protocols and ensure that illicit miners are held responsible for their conduct.
