The Ghana Police Service has arrested several individuals suspected to be involved in illegal small-scale mining, popularly known as galamsey.
In two separate operations, the law enforcement agency apprehended 39 suspects and impounded 17 excavators, a bulldozer, and some vehicles.
In a statement shared on social media on Saturday, April 19, the police indicated that the first operation led to the arrest of 29 suspects—21 Ghanaians and 8 Chinese nationals—in the Subri Forest and along the Tano River on Thursday, April 17.
“Six (6) excavators, four (4) motorbikes, two (2) Toyota Hilux vehicles, and one (1) Rav4 vehicle found at the site were impounded. Other exhibits, including four (4) pump action guns, one (1) single barrel gun, 54 live BB cartridges, and eight (8) pumping machines, were also recovered,” the police reported.
The second operation took place on Friday, April 18, targeting suspects engaged in illegal mining activities in the Aboi Forest, near Samreboi in the Western Region.
“Eleven (11) excavators and one (1) bulldozer which were found at the site have been impounded, and efforts are underway to move them from the forest into safe custody,” the police added.
They further noted that all suspects are currently in custody and will be processed according to law.
