Brigadier General Musah Whajah (Rtd.), the Western Regional National Security Liaison Officer, has stated that the anti-galamsey patrols and other operations along the banks of the Ankobra River in the region are yielding positive results.
He said there had been a considerable decrease in illegal mining (galamsey) activities along the river bank in the Gwira area since the task force started its operation to clamp down on those involved in such activities.
He said: “One significant observation we have made is that due to our patrols, there were noticeably fewer activities along the banks of the Ankobra River, and this indicates that our message is getting across to those illegally settling along the riverbank.”
Speaking after a recent patrol, Brig Gen Whajah (Rtd.) said a joint security operation along the river had resulted in the destruction of over 150 Chanfang machines, razing of makeshift camps and seizure of six excavators.
“The operation yielded significant results with 153 Chanfang machines destroyed, 87 makeshift structures burnt, and six water pumps, a generator, six excavators and an outboard motor seized,” he stated.
“During our patrol, we observed a considerable improvement on the surface of the river, however, we also encountered a few settlements along the riverbanks, with indications that some individuals are now operating at night.”
To address this, he noted that their upcoming patrols would focus on destroying all unauthorised structures along the riverbanks, saying; “We are confident that with sustained efforts, we will achieve our objectives soon.”
GNA
