Two Ghanaians and three Chinese nationals have been arrested by the Central North Police Command’s Anti-Galamsey Special Taskforce for their alleged involvement in illegal mining activities along the River Fum at Assin Ayiteykrom, near Akonfudi in the Assin North district of the Central Region.
The suspects — Mr. Kwabena Sakakba, 38; Mr. Douglas Nyamekye, 36; Ma Jian, 37; Ma Young, 31; and Ma Haibi, 54 — were apprehended during a dawn operation, which also led to the seizure of two excavators and a Toyota Hilux vehicle.
Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Francis Onyina of the Central North Public Affairs Directorate confirmed that the individuals are currently in custody and will be arraigned in court as investigations continue.
Efforts are underway to transfer the seized excavators to a secure facility while authorities work to identify and arrest the machines’ owners for possible prosecution.
ASP Onyina explained that the operation was triggered by a tip-off regarding the illegal mining, which has caused significant pollution to the River Fum — a crucial water source for 88 surrounding communities. The river is heavily relied upon by cocoa and vegetable farmers for irrigation and farm-related activities, as well as for drinking water while on their fields.
Despite the arrests, many of the illegal miners managed to flee the scene during the raid.
ASP Onyina reaffirmed the police’s resolve to eliminate illegal mining in the region and urged those involved to stop voluntarily or be prepared to face legal consequences.
He also appealed to the public to cooperate with law enforcement by sharing timely and accurate information to support efforts in maintaining peace and promoting development in the area.
